Member of the Central Election Commission Uzarbek Zhilkybaev stated on the air of Birinchi Radio that one of the candidates for the upcoming elections to the Jogorku Kenesh may be fined for campaigning in a mosque. The official campaign for the election of deputies began today, and Zhilkybaev noted that seminars and training sessions were held for candidates, where the possibilities of campaigning were discussed, including the use of WhatsApp and social media.
He also emphasized that traditional methods of campaigning, such as meetings with voters and street campaigning, remain important. In cooperation with the district offices of the CEC, events are planned where candidates will be able to meet with voters. Zhilkybaev also reported on the drawing for debates, which represent a great opportunity for candidates to present their programs. However, according to him, many candidates are avoiding participation in the debates, raising questions about their ability to convey their ideas to the public.
“It is important to remember that campaigning is prohibited in schools, children's institutions, medical organizations, and religious establishments. It is also not allowed to use children under 18 in campaign materials. We urge candidates to follow the legislation. It was recently reported that one of the candidates was campaigning in a mosque in the Issyk-Ata district. Although the fact of campaigning has not been confirmed, the candidate himself admitted that he called on people attending the evening prayer to vote for him. This is a political call, which is unacceptable. The CEC is considering the possibility of imposing a fine on this candidate,” Zhilkybaev added.
