Kyrgyzstan’s President Addresses Journalist Detentions, Stresses Freedom with Responsibility
Kyrgyzstan's President, Sadyr Japarov, has responded to recent mass detentions of online journalists, emphasizing that freedom of speech persists in the country but must align with existing laws, particularly those governing national security
In an interview with the Kabar news agency, Japarov stated that there is no intimidation or suppression of free speech in Kyrgyzstan.
Japarov acknowledged the evolving landscape where social networks compete with traditional journalism, emphasizing the need for citizens, whether journalists or bloggers, to be accountable for their words. He expressed support for quality investigative journalism but cautioned against the distortion of facts, sensationalism, manipulation, and spreading rumors without factual basis.
Amidst global democratic trends, Japarov pointed out that responsible freedom of speech is vital, and many developed countries are introducing restrictions against those exploiting it for political motives to destabilize society. He highlighted the importance of responsibility in today’s turbulent times, stating that it directly relates to national security, necessitating preventive measures.
Regarding recent detentions, Japarov clarified that among the 11 detainees, there were no professional journalists but rather bloggers using social networks to disseminate various information, some of which posed a threat to national security. He underscored the rule of law, emphasizing everyone’s responsibility, especially those who identify as journalists and bloggers.
Japarov revealed that several news agencies and entities, including kloop.media, Mediahub, kaktus.media, PolitKlinika, factcheck.kg, T-Media, and others, received grant funds from foreign donors amounting to over $600,000 annually. However, he expressed concern that these funds might not be utilized as intended, alleging a policy of discrediting the government, spreading anti-constitutional calls, and disseminating fake information threatening national security.
While supporting pluralism of opinions, Japarov advocated for responsible freedom, opposing the idea of unchecked freedom that may lead to the collapse of the state. The comments come in the wake of the detention of 11 journalists on January 17 in Bishkek, within the framework of a criminal case related to mass riots and calls for disobedience and violence.
