In their appeal, they emphasize that recent changes in the structure of security agencies require a review of law enforcement practices concerning journalists, activists, and citizens accused under Article 278 "Organization of Mass Riots" of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic and other articles.
Over the past few years, media representatives and human rights defenders have repeatedly expressed concern about the state of freedom of speech and the ability to freely express opinions in the country.
According to data from open sources, a significant number of citizens have been prosecuted under Article 278 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic. At the same time, there are restrictions on the activities of several media resources, some journalists have faced criminal prosecution, and others have been forced to leave the country, the journalists point out.
Considering the current events in the country, as well as the public's demand for legal certainty and justice, the journalists propose to consider several important points:
- conducting an additional review and, if there are grounds, revising court decisions in cases involving journalists and activists related to Article 278 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic;
- legal assessment of the validity of the sentences issued;
- applying rehabilitation mechanisms in cases of identified violations;
- terminating criminal prosecution in cases where there are insufficient legal grounds;
- creating legal conditions for the return of citizens who left the country due to criminal prosecution;
- evaluating the actions of officials in cases of possible procedural violations;
- considering the issue of compensation for damages in cases of identified violations of citizens' rights.
Journalists are confident that an objective and transparent consideration of these issues will help strengthen public trust in state institutions and contribute to the further development of Kyrgyzstan based on the rule of law and democratic principles.
