Photo of the Cabinet of Ministers. Head of the Cabinet Alydbek Kasymaliev, former mayor of Osh Jenishbek Toktorbaev, and new mayor Janar Akayev
The new mayor of the southern capital of Kyrgyzstan, the city of Osh, is Janar Akayev, a deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh. This decision followed the dismissal of the previous mayor, Jenishbek Toktorbaev. Akayev, who has experience in politics and journalism, previously served as the press secretary to the president and graduated from Osh State University. His appointment is expected against the backdrop of the need to develop the urban infrastructure and social sphere of Osh.
- Political circles link Toktorbaev's resignation to recent changes in the leadership of law enforcement agencies, including the dismissal of the head of the State National Security Committee, Kamchybek Tashiev, who was a close friend of the former mayor.
Personnel changes continue in the Cabinet of Ministers. The Parliament of Kyrgyzstan unanimously approved the appointment of three new ministers: Urmatbek Shamyrkanov became the head of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, Talantbek Soltobaev became the Minister of Transport and Communications, and Akyl Toktobaev now leads the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision.
President Sadyr Japarov previously signed decrees on the dismissal of the former ministers. The appointment process went quickly: the deputies decided not to hold discussions and immediately proceeded to voting.
Changes also occurred in the State National Security Committee: the new deputy chairman Akylbek Namazov replaced Timur Shabdanbekov, and Salmoorbек Jumabekov was removed from the position of head of the GKNB department for the Osh region, replaced by Joomart Toktogulov.
At the same time, the parliament and president approved Jumgalbek Shabdanbekov as the new chairman of the GKNB, continuing personnel reforms in the agency following the change of its previous leader.
Personnel changes also affected the Jogorku Kenesh. Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu, who previously held the position of speaker, announced his resignation. He denied rumors of political intrigues, explaining his decision as due to health issues. At the same time, vice-speaker Karim Khandzheza also left his position for personal reasons, and his place was taken by deputy Bolot Ibragimov, nominated by the "Mekenchil" group.
A system of "temporary rights" for new drivers is being introduced in Kyrgyzstan for a period of one year. If within a year beginners commit three or more traffic violations, their rights will be revoked, and they will have to undergo training again.
At the Road Council held by the Bishkek mayor's office, innovations in public transport were presented.
For other significant events and news, read the review "Week-24".
Janar Akayev: the new mayor of Osh against the backdrop of the budget and the legacy of his predecessor
The appointment of Janar Akayev as mayor of Osh came as a surprise to many following the political situation in Kyrgyzstan. He has a reputation as a public politician but lacks experience in managing urban affairs, which is a complex task requiring specific skills and flexibility. Nevertheless, he cannot be denied the ability to connect with people.
ORT-2026: registration and innovations for applicants
Registration for the General Republican Testing (ORT) has begun in Kyrgyzstan. In 2026, the procedure requires new documents and changes. What are the innovations for applicants?
Summarizing the work of Osh mayor Jenishbek Toktorbaev
Jenishbek Toktorbaev was relieved of his duties as mayor of Osh, having held the position since January 23, 2025. During his tenure, he became one of the most prominent and controversial figures in regional governance. Before his appointment as mayor, he was a deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh of the VII convocation from the "Ata-Jurt Kyrgyzstan" party, and his political career was associated with strong regional support.
Bishkek and the fight for clean air: new measures from the mayor's office
The issue of air pollution in Bishkek remains relevant. The city administration is taking comprehensive measures aimed at improving the ecological situation and reducing the level of harmful substances in the air. This was reported by the chief specialist in ecology and urban environment improvement, Nursultan Tashybek uulu.
Price escalation for food and tariffs in 2026
In January 2026, consumer prices in Kyrgyzstan increased by 0.8% compared to December 2025, while the annual growth was 9.5%. The National Statistical Committee reports that since the beginning of 2026, prices for a number of goods have already risen.
The economy of Kyrgyzstan shows growth in January 2025
According to preliminary data, the gross domestic product of Kyrgyzstan in January 2025 amounted to 125 billion 718.1 million soms, which is 9% more than in January 2024. Last year, the growth was 11.1%. The increase in GDP was driven by the sectors of commodity production, services, and net taxes on products.
Recommendations for observing the fast during Ramadan
The holy month of Ramadan began on February 19. During this time, Muslims must refrain not only from food but also from sinful thoughts and actions. 24.kg together with the DUMK offered tips on how to spend this month beneficially.
Health and fasting: which diseases may worsen
The month-long fast is an important test of faith for Muslims. Islam calls for abstaining from food and bad thoughts. Pregnant, nursing, and sick individuals are exempt from fasting. Doctors from 24.kg discussed the possible health consequences of fasting.
Personnel changes in the government
Minister of Science, Higher Education and Innovations Gulzat Isamatova gave an interview to 24.kg, in which she spoke about the priorities of reforms in this area.
The construction materials market in Kyrgyzstan: current prices and trends
Journalists from 24.kg conducted a study of prices for construction materials in Kyrgyzstan and found out what factors influence their cost. It turned out that prices are affected by seasonality, import supplies, and the development of local production.
Work of the municipal enterprise "Tazalyk": foreigners collecting garbage and a mobile app for janitors
The municipal enterprise "Tazalyk" is responsible for garbage collection and sanitation of the city. The director of the enterprise, Zholdosh Chushtukov, in an exclusive interview with 24.kg, spoke about the directions of work and tasks of his agency.
How to reduce the number of traffic accidents in Kyrgyzstan: an interview with an expert
In Kyrgyzstan, about 800 people die in traffic accidents every year, placing the country among the highest in the region for this indicator. Under the president's leadership, reforms aimed at reducing road fatalities have begun, including the abolition of private driving schools and extending driver training periods. We spoke with expert David Meskhishvili about how to improve the situation on the roads.
Business based on Kyrgyz culture: the potential of yurts
The Finns have turned Lapland into a powerful tourist industry. In an interview with 24.kg, the head of the company Ethno Yurts, Kamchybek Zamirbekov, discussed how Kyrgyzstan can benefit from its culture.
Discussion on the creation of an investigative committee in Kyrgyzstan
Amid personnel changes in law enforcement agencies and resignations of GKNB leadership, the idea of creating an investigative committee — a single body for investigations — is being discussed. This topic is becoming relevant in light of political changes.
U.S. interest in rare earth metals: new prospects for Central Asia
Washington is showing active interest in Central Asia, exploring opportunities for investment and cooperation in critical minerals. This raises both hopes and concerns about increasing the region's dependence on external players.
Stanislav Belkovsky on geopolitics in Central Asia
Stanislav Belkovsky explains in an interview with 24.kg why the U.S. has changed its attitude towards Russia and what new opportunities are opening up for Central Asia in a changing world.
Remembering Afghanistan: Abdygany Mamanov on service and its lessons
Abdygany Mamanov, who served in Afghanistan and other countries, shares his memories and lessons learned from the war. He recounts the important moments that remain in his memory and how service changed his outlook on life.
Family as a priority: Kyrgyzstan on the path to preventing social risks
A memorandum was recently signed in Bishkek between the Ministry of Labor, Social Protection, and Migration and foundations working in the field of child rights protection. This is an important step towards strengthening the support system for families and children. Deputy Minister of Labor Ainura Orozbaeva discussed how these initiatives will be implemented in practice.
The beauty of Issyk-Kul: sunrise and Lake Kara-Kamysh in reader photographs
In the "Moments of Life" section, we share photographs from our readers who love to travel and capture the beauty of Kyrgyzstan. This time we will visit Issyk-Kul and the Naryn region, as well as Bishkek.
New premieres and continuations of series at the end of February
From February 23 to March 1, viewers will be able to see many premieres and long-awaited continuations. Legendary doctors, Formula 1 racers, and monster hunters will return to the screens, as well as new law defenders in the criminal world of Montana.
