Former Osh Resort Director Assaults Journalist
Former Director of Osh Resort Assaults Journalist During Property Privatization Investigation
In the Kyrgyz Republic city of Osh, journalist Ydyrys Isakov was physically assaulted by former Director of Osh resort, Mamatkarim Koichukulov. The altercation was caught on video and posted to social media, showing Koichukulov demanding Isakov’s ID and claiming that he had no right to film him. Isakov had been investigating the privatization of the property of Osh resort at the time.
The incident has sparked outrage among press freedom advocates, who have called for Koichukulov to be held accountable for his actions. The Kyrgyz government has also condemned the attack and has launched an investigation into the matter.
Assaults on journalists are not uncommon in the Kyrgyz Republic, which has been ranked among the worst countries for press freedom by international watchdogs. The incident highlights the dangers faced by journalists who seek to uncover corruption and wrongdoing in the country.
Journalists and press freedom advocates are calling on the Kyrgyz government to take concrete steps to protect journalists and end impunity for those who commit acts of violence against them. Until the government takes action to ensure the safety of journalists, the vital work of uncovering corruption and holding the powerful to account will remain a dangerous undertaking.
