The comments were prompted by an interview Syymyk Japykeyev gave to journalist Ernis Kyyazov, published on November 2. In the conversation, which lasted 1 hour 40 minutes, the former head of the Financial Police criticized President Sadyr Japarov's policies, focusing on the worsening socioeconomic situation of the population.
The authorities' position on criticism and elections
Presidential press secretary Askat Alagozov said freedom of speech is guaranteed in Kyrgyzstan and citizens are given the right to openly criticize the country's leadership. According to him, since the electoral process has begun, differing opinions and criticism inevitably arise, and this is normal.
Alagozov stressed that Syymyk Japykeyev, like any citizen, has the right to express his own opinion, and the authorities see no problem in that. He noted that voters will hear many opinions, promises and rumors, and it will be up to them at the polling stations to decide whom to trust.
Main points of the criticism
According to Syymyk Japykeyev, Kyrgyzstanis face problems related to rising prices, credit debt and declining purchasing power. In particular, he said that "90 percent of the population suffers because of the banks."
Context
The criticism was voiced by Syymyk Japykeyev, former head of the Financial Police, who plans to run in the 2027 presidential election. In the conversation, he criticized President Sadyr Japarov's policies.
