The resignation of Kamchybek Tashiev, the former head of the State National Security Committee (GKNB), has sparked a variety of opinions among citizens. During discussions, questions about his influence on the country and possible corruption schemes related to his entourage are increasingly being considered.
Among Tashiev's supporters and journalists who back him, ideas about his elevation and rehabilitation are actively spreading. Comments on social media indicate a certain level of support among citizens who reacted negatively to his resignation, believing that the general could still benefit the country. However, the true reasons behind this political move by President Sadyr Japarov remain unknown. It is possible that Tashiev crossed the line of what is acceptable in his pursuit of power, which is intolerable in a presidential republic as it contradicts the Constitution of Kyrgyzstan. Tashiev often demonstrated superiority over other branches of power, creating an impression of his desire to control everything.
Over the past five years, Tashiev, thanks to his media team, has crafted an image of a fighter against corruption and crime, building a vertical of power based on fear and repression. Loyal deputies and ministers, including former speaker Nurlanbek Shakiyev, were present in the government and parliament. In public, he appeared vibrant: initiating meetings with citizens, criticizing officials, and delivering emotional speeches in parliament. However, behind this public facade lay actions aimed at strengthening his clan and enriching his family.
Investigations revealed that the company "Kyrgyzneftegaz," linked to Tashiev's relatives, incurred losses amounting to 4 billion soms, and among those detained in the case were his relatives. Kamchybek's brother, Shairbek, could afford significant losses in casinos. This raises questions about where the Tashiev family obtained such funds. It is possible that Kamchybek used his influence over businessmen, collecting tribute from them under the pretext of fighting corruption.
On March 20, after the Ait prayer, Tashiev publicly apologized to those he had offended. However, many perceive this as a PR move, as the image crafted by the media team does not correspond to reality. The corruption schemes in "Kyrgyzneftegaz" represent just the tip of the iceberg. It is possible that he used the GKNB to prevent truthful reports from reaching the president.
Tashiev's fate resembles that of Ibrahim Pasha, an Ottoman official who became a victim of his own intrigues and ambitions for power. Tashiev's supporters called him a leader, yet the general's epaulettes he wore were conferred upon him by President Japarov.
- Whose eyes are these? Whose voice trembles? Who quakes in this armor? Let him know: my armor will not make him a Sultan - these words were once said by Sultan Suleiman about Ibrahim Pasha.
So, Tashiev's supporters, remember: general's epaulettes do not make a person unsinkable. They can be easily removed, as we have witnessed."
Author: Mederbek Korganbaev
