Kyrgyzstan Uncovers Illegal Privatization of 32 Hospital Buildings

Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security has uncovered multiple cases of illegal transfer and long term leasing of properties located on hospital grounds in the Jalal Abad region, according to 24 kg.

Investigators found that 32 administrative buildings and five land plots belonging to hospitals in the city of Manas, as well as in Bazar Korgon and Kochkor Ata, were unlawfully removed from state ownership and used for commercial purposes.

The facilities reportedly housed private medical clinics, pharmacies, retail outlets, and fast food establishments.

Authorities noted that under a presidential decree dated February 16, 1995, social infrastructure facilities are not subject to privatization. In addition, the Land Code stipulates that buildings cannot be separated from the land plots allocated to them.

The investigation also revealed that rental fees were deliberately understated during the period of illegal use, causing significant financial losses to the state. After the properties were returned to state ownership, lease agreements were revised and budget revenues increased several fold.

All illegally transferred buildings and land plots have been returned to the state. The investigation is ongoing.