Long-standing problems in the country are being successfully addressed, and large international projects have been launched, which has contributed to strengthening relations with partners.
However, some media outlets, despite acknowledging the results achieved, note certain shortcomings. In particular, there are concerns that the situation with freedom of speech and human rights in Kyrgyzstan is deteriorating. How do you comment on these opinions about a possible rollback from democratic principles?
– Hello. Freedom of speech and democratic processes do indeed exist in our country. If we compare with previous periods, the level of freedom of speech today may even be higher. Citizens have the opportunity to openly express their opinions on social media platforms and in the media, drawing attention to social and political issues as well as personal problems. People actively write, shoot videos, and share their thoughts, and no one restricts them in this.
Of course, some may argue that law enforcement agencies detain certain individuals and that human rights are being violated. But it is important to understand that freedom of speech and democracy imply responsibility.
People are not detained for their opinions or criticism. Law enforcement agencies act against those who, under the guise of freedom of speech, organize actions aimed at destabilizing the situation in the country or openly call for the overthrow of the constitutional order. We cannot simply ignore such calls.
The detention of individuals is a serious step that is carried out only based on a court decision and during special operations, where audio and video evidence is collected.
For example, last autumn, the public witnessed a conversation between a political figure and a foreigner, in which the organization of mass riots and a request for financial support were discussed.
When someone breaks the law, they may claim to be journalists or bloggers. We do not oppose journalism, but we urge everyone not to violate the laws and not to use the concept of "freedom of speech" as a justification for illegal actions.
Some individuals, citing freedom of speech, incite interregional hatred. When their statements divide our people along territorial lines, should we just stand by?
Those who wish to hold protest actions can gather in Gorky Park, invite the media, and express their demands there. The main thing is not to interfere with the work of state bodies and not to approach their buildings. Such practices exist in many countries.
Often, developed countries in Europe and the USA are cited as examples. However, what is really happening in these countries? In the USA, immigration police shot two people under the pretext of disobedience, and Trump sued the BBC for 5 billion dollars.
As for Europe, demonstrations are practically everywhere dispersed by force, activists are arrested, and others are kept under surveillance. These events are reflected in the media and international studies. This is not always bad. In my opinion, the most important thing right now is the security of the state and its interests.
I am confident that this serves the interests of society as a whole, including those citizens who sometimes, succumbing to emotions, claim there is a "lack of freedom of speech" and "democracy".
Therefore, as I have already said, there are no restrictions on freedom of speech or human rights. The claims of several websites that "there is no freedom of speech" or "human rights are being violated" have no basis.
Interviewed by the director of KNAI "Kabar" Mederbek Shermetaliev
