Head of the State Committee for National Security Jumgalbek Shabdanbekov answered questions from AKIpress – News from Kyrgyzstan – AKIpress

Сергей Гармаш Incidents
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The Chairman of the State Committee for National Security, Jumgalbek Shabdanbekov, spoke on March 18 in an interview with the AKIpress agency about the current reforms in the agency, interaction with business, the fight against corruption, personnel changes, and also touched upon issues of information leaks and national security.

- Hello, Jumgalbek Kumaroich. There has been a lot of talk about reforms in the SCNS in recent weeks. What has caused these changes and what problems do you see?

- Hello. I have previously mentioned that structural and organizational reforms have been carried out in the SCNS. This is necessary to fulfill the tasks set by the president aimed at countering new challenges and threats. We live in a changing world, and state institutions must evolve to protect the interests of the people and ensure the security of the country.

It is important to note that the employees of the State Committee support the reforms of President Sadyr Japarov, perceiving them as an opportunity to build a professional and modern structure that operates in accordance with the law. We strive to return to our core responsibilities.

The situation in the Middle East raises serious concerns. Kyrgyzstan advocates for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in the region, based on the UN Charter and general international law.

To achieve these goals, regular consultations are held between the heads of special services within various organizations, such as the CSTO and SCO. We exchange information about the current situation, analyze the impact of events in the Middle East on the security of our states, and develop joint approaches to strengthen cooperation. These measures help us respond quickly to emerging threats and enhance the level of collective security.

- Will the powers of the SCNS in the fight against corruption and economic crimes remain after the reforms?

- This topic is actively discussed in the media and social networks; however, it is not currently on the agenda. The Main Investigative Department of the SCNS continues to operate strictly in accordance with the Criminal and Criminal Procedure Codes.

The idea of creating an independent Investigative Committee was first voiced by the president in an interview with "Kabar." As far as I know, this issue is currently being studied by a special group under the President's Administration, but there are no exact deadlines for its establishment yet.

- How will the SCNS's approach to business change? Many entrepreneurs complain about the actions of the agency.

- Before answering, I want to emphasize that the SCNS is changing its practices and moving from "methods of intimidation to legal approaches" and depoliticization. The president has demanded an end to unreasonable inspections and pressure on businesses. Such inspections have been halted since January 2026.

On March 16, I held a meeting with representatives of large businesses in Kyrgyzstan, where their proposals and opinions were discussed. This will help create more favorable conditions for doing business.

If illegal actions by officials or administrative barriers for entrepreneurs are identified, these cases will be addressed in accordance with the law. At the same time, if there are businessmen engaged in illegal activities, they will also be held accountable.

I believe that only with mutual respect between the state and business can we ensure economic development and the well-being of the country. Such meetings will be a useful platform for open dialogue, and I am ready to hold them as needed.

- There are accusations against SCNS employees circulating on social media. How do you comment on this? Will they face punishment?

- Everyone is equal before the law. If someone violates the law, they must be aware of it. "Information leaks" are not grounds for making any procedural decisions. Often such information is unverified and lacks an official basis.

Decisions are made based on facts and evidence in accordance with the law. Therefore, any rumors cannot serve as an indicator of the progress of the investigation.

At the same time, assessments can be provided by the SCNS's own security service, the Military Prosecutor's Office, and judicial authorities after a thorough verification of the information.

I want to emphasize that about 99% of SCNS employees diligently perform their duties and act in the interests of the state. Their work is aimed at ensuring security and maintaining order. However, as in any system, there are exceptions, and the actions of a few should not lead to a negative opinion about the entire organization. We are currently conducting a cleanup of dishonest employees.

An objective assessment of the SCNS's work should be based on the activities of the majority, who serve the country and society honestly.

- Is there an organized campaign to discredit the SCNS?

- Yes, in light of our efforts to identify dishonest employees, attempts are being made to discredit the SCNS. However, measures to hold violators accountable demonstrate our principled position and commitment to improving the system and increasing its transparency.

Such attempts to present individual incidents as systemic problems are speculative and aimed at undermining trust in state institutions. It is important for society to objectively assess what is happening and not to succumb to provocations.

- In recent weeks, recordings of conversations among high-ranking officials have emerged. How does this affect national security, and is the SCNS conducting an investigation?

- Within the framework of the law, the SCNS can assist in identifying the sources of these materials and individuals involved in their illegal dissemination. All facts of illegal acquisition and dissemination of information will be assessed in accordance with the law. I urge citizens and the media not to spread unverified data and to rely on official sources.

Our colleagues from the Ministry of Internal Affairs are actively working in this direction, and all actions must comply with legislation and procedural norms.

- How many SCNS employees have been dismissed since February 11?

- The SCNS's own security service continues to work on this issue. As previously reported, serious measures have been taken as a result of the internal investigation:

- 7 employees have been dismissed;

- 83 have been removed from their positions;

- 6 candidates have been excluded from the list of applicants;

- 13 employees have received disciplinary sanctions.

Work in this direction continues.

- Thank you for the interview.
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