“It seems that the law does not matter to you? There is a character named Ilim myrza, who openly claims to be a gossipmonger. His stories are spreading among journalists, which is a violation of the law,” noted Kokulov. He also added that a month ago at a Jogorku Kenesh meeting, he said: “In Kyrgyzstan, there are practically no real journalists left.” Kokulov, who once worked in this field himself, shared that his words are cut and distorted, putting him in a negative light, while his colleagues receive funding and publish without problems.
The deputy also mentioned how, after his criticism, a local pharmacy located in an inconvenient place was relocated thanks to his appeal, now complying with sanitary standards. However, journalists wrote that “Erlan Kokulov, lacking a medical education, checks the pharmacy,” which, according to him, is unacceptable in journalism.
Kokulov also commented on the incident involving an employee of the press service of the Patrol Police Department, who drew up a report against him for violating traffic rules. “Nadir, who works in the press service, is also part of the journalistic mafia. I see how I am portrayed in a negative light in his videos. He claims he waited for me since eight in the evening, while journalists are suggesting to him what needs to be done,” said the deputy.
“When I asked questions to President Sadyr Japarov, journalists wrote: ‘Erlan Kokulov complained to the president.’ What does this have to do with journalistic ethics? We demand compliance with the laws from everyone, including the traffic police, deputies, and courts. Why are journalists allowed to violate the laws?” he exclaimed.
Despite his criticism, Kokulov noted that there are good specialists among journalists. “I am ready to apologize to those who abide by the law and do not succumb to provocations. There are indeed worthy journalists in Kyrgyzstan. I urge you to follow the letter of the law, as it concerns all of us. Otherwise, I will be forced to disclose information about whom you meet and what money you receive for your materials,” concluded Kokulov.
