Supreme Court Upholds District Court’s Decision on Kloop Media Shutdown
Bishkek – The Supreme Court of Kyrgyzstan has upheld the decision to liquidate the Kloop Media public foundation, as reported by the media outlet.
The panel of judges from the Supreme Court of the Kyrgyz Republic for civil and economic cases confirmed the decision originally made by the Oktyabrsky District Court of Bishkek on July 16. Despite the court ruling, co-founder of Kloop Rinat Tukhvatshin expressed that the media outlet will continue its operations, providing insightful investigations, balanced news, and sharp commentary.
The legal battle began on August 28, 2023 when Bishkek prosecutor Emilbek Abdymanapov filed a lawsuit to dissolve the Kloop.Media public foundation. The prosecutor argued that the majority of the foundation’s publications were negative in nature and aimed at discrediting state and municipal bodies. Additionally, the lawsuit claimed that the media outlet manipulated public opinion and created opposition to the current government.
The prosecutor’s office highlighted several headlines and articles from Kloop.kg that were critical of the government, further fueling the case for liquidation. Accusations of financial misconduct were also made, alleging that the public foundation had hidden a significant amount of funds. In April 2024, the Oktyabrsky District Court ultimately ruled in favor of liquidating Kloop Media.
Despite these legal challenges, Kloop Media remains determined to persevere and provide valuable content to its audience. The media outlet stands firm in its commitment to delivering impactful journalism and holding those in power accountable.
