President Sadyr Japarov initiated major changes in the national security system by dismissing Kamchybek Tashiev, who had headed the GKNB since 2020. The head of state indicated that this decision was made in connection with the need to strengthen unity and prevent a split in society. Along with Tashiev, almost all of his deputies lost their positions.
Acting head of the special service is Jumgalbek Shabdanbekov, and his deputies are: Rustam Mamasadykov (first deputy), Alisher Erbaev (director of the Anti-Terrorism Center), and Uranbek Shadybekov (director of the Cybersecurity Center).
As part of the reorganization, key units were removed from the GKNB. The Border Service was reformed into a separate agency, headed by Abdikarym Alimbaev.
Based on the 9th department of the GKNB, the State Guard Service was created, subordinate to the president. It is headed by Syrgak Berdikozhoev.
In addition, Adilet Orozbekov was appointed as the new secretary of the Security Council.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs initiated a criminal case regarding mass riots following the emergence of a collective appeal from 75 public figures demanding new presidential elections. As a result, well-known politicians and former officials were detained, including Bekbolot Talgarbeckov, Kurmanbek Dykhanbaev, Emilbek Uzakbaev, as well as former Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Kursan Asanov and ex-governor Aaly Karashev. The investigation believes that their actions may destabilize the situation in the republic.
At the same time, President Japarov appealed to the Constitutional Court for clarification on the terms of presidential powers. This appeal was prompted by disagreements among experts regarding the start of the current term of the head of state and how to determine the dates for the next elections in light of the new Constitution adopted in 2021. The court will consider this issue on February 17, 2026, as a priority.
Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu resigned from the position of Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh at his own request. He held this position since 2022 and was re-elected in December 2025. "I have never worked for the interests of individuals; I have always acted for the good of the country and the people. I remain a deputy and will continue to work," he noted.
The new Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh is deputy Marlen Mamataliyev, who received support from 77 votes, with five against. Mamataliyev was the only candidate for this position.
- The Russian ambassador to Kyrgyzstan, Sergey Vakunov, condemned the West's sanctions against Kyrgyz financial institutions, calling them interference in internal affairs. He reported that Bishkek had proposed conducting a joint audit of the companies under sanctions, but this proposal was ignored. The sanctions affected "Keremet Bank," "Kapital Bank," and other financial organizations.
Meanwhile, Kyrgyzstan reported achievements in the field of digital reforms. Thanks to the "Government Accelerators" program, the time for obtaining transport documents to China has decreased 144 times — from 24 hours to 10 minutes. Transport control at the EAEU borders has also been simplified by implementing electronic data exchange and eliminating administrative barriers for businesses.
The issue of road construction through the cemetery in Novopavlovka has been resolved. The mayor of the capital, Aybek Junushaliev, announced the extension of Profsoyuznaya Street to bypass the burials, so as not to violate sanitary norms. This will require the demolition of four residential houses with compensation payments to their owners.
- In the Jalal-Abad region, a situation is being investigated: in the village of Arstanbap, a grandfather is suspected of raping his underage granddaughter, who became pregnant. The suspect is in pre-trial detention, and the family of the victim is facing pressure from relatives and villagers.
Read about other significant events and news in the overview article "Week-24".
The resignation of Kamchybek Tashiev: results of five years as head of the GKNB
During his leadership of the GKNB, Kamchybek Tashiev became one of the key figures in the political and security system of the country. His resignation became a significant event at the beginning of 2026, and President Sadyr Japarov explained that the decision was made "in the interests of the state to prevent a split and strengthen unity." What did Kamchybek Tashiev's five-year work as head of the State Committee for National Security entail? Find out in the material from 24.kg.
Expert opinions on the resignation of Kamchybek Tashiev
Experts actively discussed the resignation of the head of the GKNB Kamchybek Tashiev and the reorganization of the security bloc carried out by President Sadyr Japarov. We gathered expert opinions on this matter in one material.
Personnel changes in the GKNB and new security structures of Kyrgyzstan
This week, an important event occurred in the political life of Kyrgyzstan — the head of the State Committee for National Security Kamchybek Tashiev was dismissed. Following him, several deputies also lost their positions. They have already been replaced by new personnel. In addition, a new structure was created, and border guards returned to independent management.
Bishkek without filters: ecological problems due to replacing shrubs with lawns
In Bishkek, a fight against shrubs is beginning, justified by the need to create open and safe spaces. However, experts warn that such a replacement may lead to serious ecological problems in conditions of high-density construction and water scarcity. Urbanist and ecologist Dmitry Pereyaslavsky explained that such a replacement could negatively impact the city's ecology.
Alaman Ulak: from chaos to order in the national game
In August 2025, the "Alaman Ulak" federation was established in Kyrgyzstan. Chief referee Melis Bekhtashev noted that unlike kok-boru, in this game each player acts individually, and the number of participants can reach hundreds. Previously, alaman ulak was held without strict rules, which often led to incidents. What changes have occurred with the introduction of new rules?
Gold and investments: what to consider before buying
Against the backdrop of a global decline in precious metal prices, there is a rush in Kyrgyzstan. Some are eager to sell gold to preserve savings, while others want to buy it at reduced prices. Whether it is worth investing in gold bars was discussed by a journalist from 24.kg with experts.
Healthcare reform: new faces, old problems
In December 2025, there was a complete overhaul of the leadership at the Ministry of Health of Kyrgyzstan. The new minister is a person with experience in national security. Kanybek Dosmambetov is presented as a reformer capable of eliminating corruption and clannishness in the system. Over the past five years, the country has seen four ministers change, but unresolved problems remain. More details about attempts to reform the sector can be found in the material from 24.kg.
The forgotten drug lord: Dali myrza Zulfibaev in the history of Kyrgyzstan
The history of Kyrgyz statehood is not only about historical facts but also about the fates of the people who shaped those facts. Dali myrza Zulfibaev, a representative of the old aristocracy and people's commissar, proved that true nobility is defined not by lineage but by the scale of benefit to the people. His grandson Oleg Zulfibaev shared memories of his grandfather, along with recollections from relatives.
"Epstein Files": international scandal and its connection to Atambayev
"Epstein Files," published on the website of the U.S. Department of Justice, attracted global attention. These materials are part of FBI investigations into the American financier and his circle. We tried to understand why these files are so relevant and what connection they have with Kyrgyz politicians. Details can be found in the material from 24.kg.
Jury translator of Kyrgyz in Germany: about courts, cinema, and the dream of translating "Manas"
Mahabat Sadyrbek is a doctor of science, linguist, and international political scientist who has lived and worked in Germany for many years. Her work "Complete Grammar of the Kyrgyz Language" was recently published on Amazon. In an interview with 24.kg, she shared her experiences of living in Germany and how to popularize the Kyrgyz language.
Leaving a mark: how photographer Danil Usmanov captures history with his shots
Documentary photographer Danil Usmanov looks at Kyrgyzstan through a lens where every detail matters. His works reflect the lives of ordinary people, streets, and seemingly minor changes. In an interview with 24.kg, he spoke about his journey in the profession and the challenges faced by documentary photographers in the modern world.
February Bishkek and the Murdash Gorge: photos and videos from readers
The "Moments of Life" section is created with the help of our authors — readers of 24.kg, who love to travel around Kyrgyzstan, take photos, and shoot videos. In this issue, we will stroll through Bishkek, visit Issyk-Kul, and reach the Murdash Gorge in the south of the republic.
From "The Mentalist" to "Night Agent": the main premieres of series from February 16 to 22
From February 16 to 22, streaming platforms and TV channels will present several memorable projects. Viewers can expect premieres about mystical abilities and aliens, as well as continuations of popular series. The list of new releases includes thrillers based on real events, historical melodramas, and intricate European detective stories.
