News of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek and Osh — latest events today

News

{title}
Local news
{title}
Economy
{title}
Incidents
{title}
Exclusive
{title}
Analytics
{title}
In the world
{title}
Political news
{title}
Health
{title}
Sports
{title}
Education news
{title}
Ecology
{title}
Cultural news
In Bishkek, 28,000 smart meters will be installed starting from 2025.
Exclusive

In Bishkek, 28,000 smart meters will be installed starting from 2025.

In Bishkek, the branch of OJSC "NESC" — the enterprise of electrical networks (PES) — has begun implementing an automated system for commercial accounting of electric energy (ASKUE). According to representatives of PES, the main goal of implementing ASKUE is to improve the management of electricity distribution, as well as to ensure accurate and transparent accounting of consumption.

19.01.2026, 16:08
Kyrgyzstan Seized 15 Tons of Questionable Kumys from Russia at the Border
Local news

Kyrgyzstan Seized 15 Tons of Questionable Kumys from Russia at the Border

At the border veterinary control point "Ak-Tilek," located in the Chui region, an attempt to import a significant batch of kumis was stopped. According to the press service of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Kyrgyz Republic, 15,600 liters of this drink were planned to be delivered from Russia, but the cargo was detained and sent back.

19.01.2026, 16:02
Local news

In Kyrgyzstan, fines will be imposed for violations of halal industry requirements

The proposal to introduce fines for non-compliance with the requirements established by the Law "On the Halal Industry in the Kyrgyz Republic" was voiced by Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce Sultan Akhmatov at a meeting of the committee of the Jogorku Kenesh dedicated to finance, budget, entrepreneurship, and competition. According to Akhmatov, this law implies that violations of the norms will entail responsibility as provided by the Code of Offenses of Kyrgyzstan.

19.01.2026, 15:56
Trump stated that since he did not receive the Nobel Prize, he is no longer obligated to think about peace and wants Greenland.
In the world

Trump stated that since he did not receive the Nobel Prize, he is no longer obligated to think about peace and wants Greenland.

In a letter, the text of which was published by PBS journalist Nick Schifrin, Trump addressed the ambassadors of European countries in Washington, asking them to convey his words to the heads of government. He wrote: “Dear Jonas! Since your country has decided not to award me the Nobel Peace Prize for preventing more than eight wars, I no longer consider myself obligated to think only about peace. Although it remains a priority, I can now focus on what will be beneficial and right for the

19.01.2026, 15:56
The Mayor of Bishkek commented on the work of "Tazalyk" in road cleaning
Local news / Exclusive

The Mayor of Bishkek commented on the work of "Tazalyk" in road cleaning

At the end of last week, there was a sharp drop in temperature in Bishkek, accompanied by snowfall. This caused a wave of discontent among residents, who began to criticize the slow response to road clearing on social media. The mayor of the capital, Aibek Junushaliev, noted in an interview with the Kabar agency that the team of the municipal enterprise "Tazalyk" is successfully handling the task of snow removal. He explained: "This season, all the equipment of our enterprise

19.01.2026, 15:54
Incidents

The head of the State Committee for National Security met with the victims of the actions of the detained owner of the pawnshop chain.

On January 19, Kamchybek Tashiev held a meeting with citizens recognized as victims in the criminal case against the detained owner of the pawnshop network S. M. A. The meeting took place at the headquarters of the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic (GKNB KR), where the accused was also present, according to information from the agency's press service. Tashiev informed the participants about the progress of the investigation, noting that S. M. A. has previous

19.01.2026, 15:54
Local news

The Writers' Union called on law enforcement agencies to assess the statements of Zhapikeev.

The Union of Writers of Kyrgyzstan asserts that a legal assessment of the statements made by Syimyk Japikeev is necessary. The organization emphasized that Chinghiz Aitmatov and his works are a source of national pride for the people of Kyrgyzstan, and such comments are unacceptable. In a statement published on social media, the union's collective stated: "We consider the words that tarnish the honor of Chinghiz Aitmatov and do not correspond to reality to be unfounded."

19.01.2026, 15:53
In Kazakhstan, conscript servicemen will no longer be granted loans.
Exclusive

In Kazakhstan, conscript servicemen will no longer be granted loans.

The document also contains a requirement that banks and microfinance organizations must check the status of individuals of conscription age when receiving a loan application. If the credit report indicates that the person is on active duty, the bank must refuse to issue the loan. The discussion of the project is taking place on the "Open NPA" website until February 3.

19.01.2026, 15:51
Economy

In Bishkek, 28,000 smart meters were installed starting from the beginning of 2025.

As part of the reform and digitalization of the energy sector, the Bishkek Electric Networks Enterprise, which is part of the OJSC "NESC," continues to implement automated commercial electricity accounting systems (ACES). This was reported by the press service of the Bishkek Electric Networks. Since the beginning of 2025, 28,000 smart meters have been installed in the capital, distributed across the districts as follows:

19.01.2026, 15:46
The State Institution "Kyzmat" clarified the situation regarding the change of PIN due to gender change.
Local news / Exclusive

The State Institution "Kyzmat" clarified the situation regarding the change of PIN due to gender change.

The institution GУ "Kyzmat" reported that they do not offer or initiate the process of changing the personal identification number (PIN) for individuals who have changed their gender. According to information received from GУ "Kyzmat", a draft law proposed by the Ministry of Digital Development and Innovative Technologies of the Kyrgyz Republic was discussed at a meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on January 19. This draft law aims to regulate the process of

19.01.2026, 15:43
Bakyt Torobaev met with the IMF representative in Kyrgyzstan, Farid Talyshly
Exclusive

Bakyt Torobaev met with the IMF representative in Kyrgyzstan, Farid Talyshly

Deputy Prime Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry Bakyt Torobaev held a meeting with Farid Talyshly, the permanent representative of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the country. This information was announced by the press service of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic. During the discussion, issues related to cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and the IMF were addressed. The meeting participants emphasized the

19.01.2026, 15:42
The GKNB of Kyrgyzstan revealed cruel, inhumane, and degrading methods of influence at the rehabilitation center "Path to Life"
Exclusive

The GKNB of Kyrgyzstan revealed cruel, inhumane, and degrading methods of influence at the rehabilitation center "Path to Life"

During the investigation, it was established that the staff of the center, mainly consisting of former addicts without higher medical education and licenses, conducted so-called "pseudo-psychiatric" procedures and conversations under the guidance of the administration. In moments of acute psychological crisis for patients, especially during a "breakdown," cruel and degrading methods of influence were applied. For "subduing," physical force and special devices were

19.01.2026, 15:41
Alimardon Shukurov Returns to Kyrgyzstan
Local news

Alimardon Shukurov Returns to Kyrgyzstan

Alimardon Shukurov, midfielder of the Kyrgyzstan national team, is returning to the national championship after seven years. This was reported by the press service of the "Muras-United" club, with which the 26-year-old footballer has signed a contract.

19.01.2026, 15:41
The National Bank fined a commercial bank
Economy / Exclusive

The National Bank fined a commercial bank

According to information provided by the regulator, one of the commercial banks was fined 55,000 soms. This decision was made due to violations of the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic and the regulatory acts of the National Bank.

19.01.2026, 15:37
The President of Iran called the assassination attempt on the Supreme Leader a declaration of war.
In the world

The President of Iran called the assassination attempt on the Supreme Leader a declaration of war.

Masoud Pezeshkian, President of Iran In his statement, Pezeshkian noted that the "difficulties and hardships" faced by the Iranian people are largely a result of years of hostility and harsh sanctions imposed by the U.S. government and its partners. On the same day, January 17, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for the protesters in Iran, stating that the Iranian authorities are using repression and violence to maintain power, and it is time to "seek new

19.01.2026, 15:37
Beknazar Bazaraliyev appointed as the first Deputy Minister of Transport of Kyrgyzstan
Exclusive

Beknazar Bazaraliyev appointed as the first Deputy Minister of Transport of Kyrgyzstan

Beknazar Bazaraliev was appointed as the first deputy minister of transport and communications on January 19, 2026, and on that day he was introduced to the ministry staff. The appointment order was signed on January 16 by the chairman of the cabinet of ministers Adylbek Kasymaliev, who also relieved Talantbek Osmonbekovich Soltobaev of his duties as the first deputy minister.

19.01.2026, 15:36
Local news

Additional Barriers to Be Installed at the Pedestrian Crossing on Aitmatov Avenue

According to information provided by the Bishkek City Hall, the Department of Transport and Development of Road Transport Infrastructure is initiating the installation of additional barriers in the underground passage on Chingiz Aitmatov Avenue. In this department, it was noted that during the construction of the underground passage, initial barriers had already been installed, and street lighting along the road is operational. However, to improve safety at the construction site, the

19.01.2026, 15:35
Commercial State Cinema. The first two pilot films will be released in theaters in 2026.
Exclusive

Commercial State Cinema. The first two pilot films will be released in theaters in 2026.

The Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic is launching new initiatives to support the film industry and the distribution of government orders. This was announced by Deputy Minister Marat Tagaev. According to Tagaev, a special regulation was adopted two months ago, which has already come into effect. As part of this pilot project, the filming of two films on a commercial basis began at the end of 2025, and their production is planned to be completed

19.01.2026, 15:35
Hollywood actor registered a personal brand due to AI
Exclusive

Hollywood actor registered a personal brand due to AI

Matthew McConaughey, the Oscar-winning actor for his role in "Dallas Buyers Club," has decided to register a trademark for his voice and image. This step has become necessary to prevent their unauthorized use in projects related to artificial intelligence, as reported by the BBC. According to information from The Wall Street Journal, documents have been filed with the U.S. Patent Office concerning elements from the film "Dazed and Confused" (1993), including its iconic line

19.01.2026, 15:28
In Kyrgyzstan, a minimum alcohol threshold for drivers may be allowed
Exclusive

In Kyrgyzstan, a minimum alcohol threshold for drivers may be allowed

At a meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh, a draft law was approved in the first reading, which proposes significant changes to traffic rules and the operation of tow trucks. Deputy Dastan Bekeshev, who initiated the proposal, intends to fundamentally revise the approach to punishing drivers, as well as legalize small two-wheeled vehicles.

19.01.2026, 15:27
Local news / Exclusive

Bishkek is adopting a new approach to ice removal from roads

In Bishkek, Mayor Aibek Junushaliev announced that sand will no longer be used to combat ice on city roads. This decision was made to improve the environmental situation and maintain the cleanliness of the capital, as sand, when mixed with snow, leads to street pollution. “We strive not to pollute the city, so sand will no longer be scattered. Instead, we will use salt to combat ice,” he emphasized.

19.01.2026, 15:23
Local news

In Bishkek, the alternative road to the airport will be extended to Profsoyuznaya Street

In Bishkek, Mayor Aibek Junushaliev conducted an on-site inspection of the area where the construction of an alternative road leading to Manas Airport is ongoing. This information was announced by the municipality's press service. The mayor noted that this route will become an important international transport corridor, which will help reduce the load on existing routes and provide convenient access to the airport.

19.01.2026, 15:23
Over 15,000 liters of kumys from Russia were not allowed into Kyrgyzstan
Local news / Exclusive

Over 15,000 liters of kumys from Russia were not allowed into Kyrgyzstan

At the border veterinary control point "Ak-Tilek," located in the Chui region, an illegal attempt to import 15,600 liters of kumis from Russia was prevented. This information was provided by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Kyrgyz Republic. Veterinary control inspectors conducting the inspection found that the packaging of the product lacked a manufacturing date, which is a violation of the veterinary and sanitary standards established in the country.

19.01.2026, 15:22
Local news / Cultural news

Deputy Minister of Culture Tagaev on Zhapikeev: Chinghiz Aitmatov does not need protection from a person who needs psychological help and hospitalization

At a meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh on science, education, innovative development, information technology, culture, sports, and youth affairs, Deputy Gulsharkan Kultaeva urged the Ministry of Culture to evaluate the statements made by Syimyk Japikeev about Chyngyz Aitmatov. Kultaeva noted that Japikeev, who gave an interview to a channel with 200,000 subscribers, allowed himself to speak negatively about the great writer. “Aitmatov is our cultural symbol. Esteemed representatives of the Ministry

19.01.2026, 15:20
Events / Sports

A program for the development of physical culture and sports until 2030 will be developed in Kyrgyzstan.

On January 19, at a meeting of the committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on science, education, innovative development, information technologies, culture, sports, and youth affairs, the director of the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports, Kazybek Moldazhiyev, announced plans to develop a program for the development of physical culture and sports in Kyrgyzstan by 2030. He noted that the program includes goals aimed at the development of both mass and professional sports, as well as the

19.01.2026, 15:17
Erulan Kokulov: The Ministry of Culture is profiting from tobacco and alcohol advertising in films
Exclusive

Erulan Kokulov: The Ministry of Culture is profiting from tobacco and alcohol advertising in films

"Is it only my responsibility to care about the health of the citizens of Kyrgyzstan?" At a meeting of the parliamentary committee on science, education, innovative development, information technology, culture, sports, and youth affairs, Deputy Erulan Kokulov expressed his intention to file a lawsuit against the Ministry of Culture of Kyrgyzstan. The reason was the instances of advertising tobacco products and alcoholic beverages in films.

19.01.2026, 15:17
Local news

In Kyrgyzstan, there is again an increase in ARVI and influenza

During the third week of 2026, from January 12 to 18, Kyrgyzstan recorded 15,869 cases of ARVI and influenza. This data was provided by the Department of Disease Prevention and State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance, reports 24. kg. As noted by the department, compared to the previous week, the number of cases increased by 28.8 percent.

19.01.2026, 15:14
Economy

The size of the minimum subsistence level in Kyrgyzstan has been announced

According to the latest data from the National Statistics Committee, the minimum subsistence level per capita in Kyrgyzstan for 2025 is set at 8,697.32 soms. For various categories of citizens, this indicator is as follows: for the working population — 9,738.29 soms, for pensioners — 7,699.36 soms, and for children — 7,379.07 soms per month.

19.01.2026, 15:14
Local news

National Films of Kyrgyzstan Attracted Over 200,000 Viewers in 2025

Some films have been recognized at international festivals In 2025, the State Film Center "Kyrgyzfilm" issued 362 distribution certificates, of which 146 are intended for domestic films. Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy Marat Tagaev presented a report on the achievements of national cinematography at a meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on Science, Education, Innovations, Information Technologies, Culture, Sports, and Youth Affairs.

19.01.2026, 15:12
Economy

The Ministry of Economy proposes to shorten the storage period of Kyrgyz citizens' credit histories.

The Ministry of Economy and Commerce has prepared amendments to the Law "On the Exchange of Credit Information." These amendments were discussed at a meeting of the committee of the Jogorku Kenesh, which is responsible for finance, budget, entrepreneurship, and competition development. According to the proposed bill, it is planned to adjust the retention periods for credit data:

19.01.2026, 15:11
Events / Sports

In 2025, the "School League" project involved 2030 teams, with a prize fund of 8.5 million soms.

In Kyrgyzstan, the successful project "School League" was completed in 2025, during which competitions in football, basketball, and volleyball took place. This was reported by Kazybek Moldazhiyev, the director of the State Agency for Physical Culture and Sports, at a meeting of the committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on science, education, innovative development, information technologies, culture, sports, and youth affairs, held on January 19. According to Moldazhiyev, the project

19.01.2026, 15:10
Exclusive

Citizens with loans up to 100,000 soms should not be included in the banks' "blacklist," - deputy

- During the meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh, which deals with finance, budget, entrepreneurship, and competitiveness, Deputy Marlen Mamataliyev raised an important issue regarding the "black lists" of credit bureaus that jeopardize the ability of many citizens to obtain loans, even those who have had minor delays. As the deputy noted, even borrowers with a debt of just 10,000 soms, who have delayed payments for any reason, risk ending up on the "black list,"

19.01.2026, 15:08
European leaders created a closed chat to discuss Trump's behavior
Exclusive

European leaders created a closed chat to discuss Trump's behavior

As Politico points out, this chat has become a sought-after tool for exchanging information and coordinating positions in response to Trump's sharp actions, which may be perceived in Europe as destabilizing. Sources from the publication emphasize that this format of communication is particularly useful when events unfold rapidly and traditional diplomacy cannot keep up with the changes. According to the publication, the chat, named the "Washington Group," emerged as a result of

19.01.2026, 15:07
The historical novel "Syngan Kylch" is being adapted into a film in Kyrgyzstan
Exclusive

The historical novel "Syngan Kylch" is being adapted into a film in Kyrgyzstan

The Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, Sports and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan, Marat Tagaev, announced plans to create a film based on the historical novel "Syngan Kylch," written by Tologon Kasymbekov. According to Tagaev, the National Council has approved the launch of the project to adapt this famous work. It is expected that the script will be completed and the project budget approved by 2026.

19.01.2026, 15:05