U.S. Department of State Condemns Suppression of Media in Kyrgyzstan
The United States Raises Concerns Over Kyrgyz Republic’s Crackdown on Independent Media
The U.S. Department of State has expressed deep concern over recent actions taken by the government of the Kyrgyz Republic against independent media outlets and journalists. According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, these actions contribute to a pattern of government activity aimed at stifling public debate and free expression.
The U.S. government is calling on Kyrgyz authorities to ensure that journalists can operate without undue pressure or harassment. They emphasize that a free and independent press is essential for protecting human rights, maintaining effective democratic institutions, and promoting peace and security.
The concerns come in the wake of a series of incidents targeting media outlets and journalists in Kyrgyzstan. On January 16, employees of the State Committee for National Security conducted a search at the office of 24.kg news agency and interrogated several individuals. Equipment and personal mobile phones were confiscated, and the employees were taken for questioning as part of a criminal case under the article “Propaganda of War” of the Kyrgyz Criminal Code.
Additionally, the office of Temirov Live was searched, with editorial equipment confiscated. The police also carried out searches of homes and detained 11 current and former employees of the media outlet. The Interior Ministry has announced the initiation of criminal proceedings against them for “calling for riots” based on content found on social media pages.
All detainees have been arrested until the end of the investigation by court decision. They are set to be kept in Bishkek pretrial detention center 1 until March 13.
The crackdown on independent media in Kyrgyzstan has sparked international concern, with the United States urging the Kyrgyz authorities to respect press freedom and ensure that journalists can carry out their work without fear of persecution. The U.S. government’s statement reflects a broader international call for the protection of free speech and a vibrant, independent media landscape in Kyrgyzstan.
