President Japarov Orders Reprimand for Health Minister
Kyrgyzstan President Orders Urgent Reforms in Republican Diagnostic Center
Bishkek, 08 May 2025 – 13:46
In a decisive move, President Sadyr Japarov has given Health Minister Erkin Checheybaev a strict two-day deadline to address critical shortcomings at the Republican Diagnostic Center. This urgent directive follows Japarov’s unscheduled visit to the facility, spurred by alarming reports concerning its operational state, particularly in the context of a humanitarian program for pediatric cardiac surgery involving international specialists.
During his visit, the President was confronted with dire statistics: 24 children suffering from serious heart conditions are currently awaiting surgery, with three tragic fatalities recorded in recent days. This unsettling situation was exacerbated by reports from the visiting specialists who indicated that the center lacks essential medical infrastructure to deliver adequate care.
Currently, diagnostics at the center are reliant on an outdated ultrasound machine that fails to provide accurate results. Additionally, the absence of a fully operational sterilization room has led to instruments being transported to another facility by vehicle, increasing the risks of infection for vulnerable patients. Many children have been admitted for surgery with pre-existing infections, raising serious concerns about their care.
Japarov did not hold back in his criticism of the Health Minister, highlighting an alarming level of negligence and irresponsibility. "The minister must ensure that necessary conditions are established in a medical facility. He should be here day and night until every issue is resolved. I give two days for this," the President stated firmly, while also directing further disciplinary measures against Checheybaev.
This intervention underscores the government’s commitment to the health and well-being of its citizens, especially the youngest and most vulnerable. The coming days will be crucial as the Minister works to rectify the grave deficiencies identified by the President. The health landscape in Kyrgyzstan stands at a pivotal juncture, as effective and prompt action becomes imperative to safeguard the lives of its children.
