CPJ Denounces Lawsuit Targeting April TV
Kyrgyz Prosecutors Target Independent Media as CPJ Voices Concern
Bishkek – 15:34, 25 April 2025
By Elena Khokhlova, 24.kg news agency
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has strongly condemned a lawsuit initiated by Kyrgyz prosecutors against the independent broadcaster April TV, citing alleged “negative” coverage of the government.
“Kyrgyz authorities continue a deplorable pattern of shutting down news outlets under illegitimate pretenses that their ‘negative’ reporting could incite unrest,” stated Anna Brakha, CPJ’s Senior Researcher for Europe and Central Asia. “In a democratic society, critical news coverage should not be grounds for media closure. Kyrgyz authorities must allow April TV to operate freely.”
According to official documents reviewed by CPJ, the prosecutors aim to revoke April TV’s broadcasting license and terminate its social media operations, as part of an investigation led by the State Committee for National Security. The lawsuit claims that the outlet’s critical reporting presents authorities in an “unfavorable light” and undermines the government’s authority, potentially inciting unrest or challenges to power.
In response, April TV has refuted the allegations, asserting its commitment to supporting law enforcement efforts against harmful activities. However, the channel also emphasized that freedom of speech and the ability to criticize authority are essential pillars of a democratic society.
The prosecutor’s office of the Oktyabrsky district has officially filed the lawsuit to close April TV. The case highlights ongoing tensions between independent media and the Kyrgyz government, raising concerns about press freedom in the region.
