Traditions have become a tool for manipulation
The KOLFEST festival, scheduled for the end of July in the Ton district, has come under scrutiny after deputy Bolot Saginayev called for the event's cancellation, citing alleged "immoral behavior" of the participants. However, an investigation conducted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs did not confirm any of the accusations, including those related to the promotion of LGBT and drug use.
The organizers of KOLFEST link the deputy's actions to the interests of alternative festivals on Issyk-Kul, claiming that this is an attempt to undermine the tourist image of Kyrgyzstan.
They expressed their willingness for open dialogue with local residents and emphasized their respect for Kyrgyz traditions.
Nevertheless, this incident has become a vivid example of how "traditional values" can be used in the competitive struggle for the region's tourist market.
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