Famous Poet Askat Zhetigen Arrested in Naryn
Poet and Singer Askat Zhetigen Detained by Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security
In a recent development, Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security (SCNS) has detained poet and singer Askat Zhetigen. The news was confirmed by lawyer Venera Buudaibekova in an interview with Radio Azattyk.
According to Buudaibekova, Zhetigen was brought to Bishkek and placed in a temporary detention facility for 48 hours. The SCNS suspects him of calls for seizure of power based on his video messages, resulting in a criminal case being opened in 2022.
Buudaibekova mentioned that Zhetigen had been interrogated multiple times, with the investigator citing the conclusions of examinations conducted on his statements as the basis for his arrest.
The detainment comes after Zhetigen published a video criticizing President Sadyr Japarov’s latest interview, using foul language. In the video, Zhetigen expressed frustration over not being able to secure a meeting with the President to discuss increasing funding for the cultural sector, despite his efforts over three years.
Askat Zhetigen is a well-known figure in Kyrgyzstan, excelling as an akyn, composer, and komuz player. He gained recognition at the age of 18 when he led the folklore and ethnographic ensemble Ordo Sakhna, performing in over 20 countries.
The news of Zhetigen’s detention has sparked conversations and debates within the cultural and artistic community in Kyrgyzstan, with many expressing concern over freedom of expression and artistic creativity in the country. The situation continues to unfold as more details emerge regarding Zhetigen’s case.
