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
Local news

Timur Ibragimov has become the new chairman of the board of "Bakay Bank"

The extraordinary general meeting of shareholders of OJSC "Bakay Bank" took place on December 22, 2025, and resulted in significant personnel changes. This is reported by the website of the Kyrgyz Stock Exchange. As a result of the voting, Timur Ibragimov was elected chairman of the board starting January 2026, while Sergey Ibragimov became a member of the board of directors.

13.01.2026, 18:05
Responsibility for Drunk Driving in Kyrgyzstan is Planned to be Toughened
Local news / Exclusive

Responsibility for Drunk Driving in Kyrgyzstan is Planned to be Toughened

At a meeting of the relevant committee of the Jogorku Kenesh held today, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic Oktobur Urmambetov presented a new draft law concerning road safety. This project, titled "On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts Regarding Road Safety," was developed in accordance with the decree of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic dated December 7, 2021, No. 548, and aims to reduce the number of accidents and their severity. The document

13.01.2026, 18:01
Local news / Cultural news

At the National Philharmonic, the 85th anniversary of composer and singer Ryspay Abdykadyrov was celebrated

An evening dedicated to the 85th anniversary of the birth of Rysbai Abdykadyrov, an outstanding composer and musician who became a classic of Kyrgyz musical culture and a honored artist of Kyrgyzstan, took place at the Toktogul Satylganov National Philharmonic. According to the press service of the Ministry of Culture, the event gathered state and public figures, musicologists, representatives of the creative intelligentsia, and admirers of the work of this great composer.

13.01.2026, 17:42
Local news

"50 Citizens of Kyrgyzstan Reside in Mongolia, - General Prosecutor's Office"

At the meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on issues of the judicial system, law enforcement, combating crime, and countering corruption, Deputy Attorney General Ümütkan Konkubaeva reported that there are about 50 citizens of Kyrgyzstan in Mongolia. The discussion focused on a draft law concerning the ratification of the Extradition Treaty signed between the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia on July 21, 2025, in Bishkek. This document is intended to establish a legal framework for the

13.01.2026, 17:40
Volcano in the Philippines Erupts with a 100-Meter Lava Fountain
In the world / Exclusive

Volcano in the Philippines Erupts with a 100-Meter Lava Fountain

In the morning on the island of Luzon, where the active Mayon volcano is located, an eruption occurred during which the lava fountain reached a height of 100 meters. According to the Philippine News Agency, this information was provided by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). The height of the volcano's crater is 2462 meters, and it is known for its frequent eruptions. On social media, NDRRMC also posted a video recording of this event.

13.01.2026, 17:39
Local news / Cultural news

The deputy proposed to preserve the title "People's Poet"

At the meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on Constitutional Legislation, held on January 13, Deputy Janar Akaev raised important questions regarding the draft law related to the reform of the system of state awards and honorary titles. Answers to his questions were provided by Deputy Minister of Justice Kuban Kazakov.

13.01.2026, 17:38
Local news

The Specialized Committee of the Parliament reviewed the bill on the issuance between Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia.

The Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh, which deals with issues of justice, law enforcement, combating crime, and countering corruption, held the first reading of a bill concerning the ratification of the Extradition Treaty between the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia. This document was signed on July 21, 2025, in Bishkek. Deputy Attorney General Ümütkan Konkubayeva noted that this bill establishes a legal basis for the extradition of convicted persons, allowing them to serve their sentences in their

13.01.2026, 17:37
Ecology

By 2024, there were about 400 illegal dumps in Kyrgyzstan, and today they have been reduced to 220, - head of the Ministry of Natural Resources

The number of illegal dumps in Kyrgyzstan has decreased from 400 to 220 thanks to the measures taken. This was stated by the Minister of Natural Resources, Meder Mashiev, in an interview with AKIpress. He noted that work is ongoing in the country to improve and consolidate landfills for more effective waste management. Mashiev also shared plans for improving waste management under the extended producer responsibility (EPR). "We strive for more effective waste management, especially with

13.01.2026, 17:36
Sports / Exclusive

In the rural district of Khan-Tengri in the Ak-Suu region, athletes and coaches were awarded

In the rural district of Khan-Tengiri in the Ak-Suu region of the Issyk-Kul province, athletes and coaches who participated in world and national championships throughout 2025 and achieved high results were awarded. According to the information, athletes who raised the flag of Kyrgyzstan abroad and took 1st place were presented with cash certificates of 15,000 soms, for 2nd place — 10,000 soms, and for 3rd place — 7,000 soms, funded by the Khan-Tengiri rural administration.

13.01.2026, 17:36
The credit portfolio of banks in Kyrgyzstan has increased by one and a half times.
Economy / Exclusive

The credit portfolio of banks in Kyrgyzstan has increased by one and a half times.

According to the latest data, from January to September of this year, there has been a significant increase in bank lending in Kyrgyzstan, especially in the segments of consumer loans, trade, and mortgage programs. According to the National Statistics Committee, as of October 1, the credit portfolio of the banking sector reached 461.1 billion soms, which represents an increase of 1.5 times or 160.3 billion soms compared to the same period last year.

13.01.2026, 17:24
"Displacing Old Power Groups". How Strategic Assets in Kazakhstan's Extractive Industry Change Owners
Exclusive

"Displacing Old Power Groups". How Strategic Assets in Kazakhstan's Extractive Industry Change Owners

Recent events at "Kazakhmys" raise questions about how old power groups are losing control over large assets that can influence the political and economic situation in the country. In Almaty, for example, Qazaq Stroy, led by Nurlan Artykbaev, received a plot of land for the construction of a presidential library and an apartment hotel, which previously belonged to structures associated with Timur Kulibaev — the son-in-law of Nazarbayev. In 2023, this plot was returned to the state,

13.01.2026, 17:16
Health

All doctors in Kyrgyzstan must undergo certification for breathalyzers, - Ministry of Internal Affairs

At a meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on law enforcement, judicial issues, and the fight against corruption, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Oktobyr Urmambetov reported on the necessity of certifying all doctors for the use of breathalyzers. Deputy Bolo Ibrahimov emphasized the importance of the ability to conduct on-site breath testing for drivers in emergency situations.

13.01.2026, 17:14
Economy

The Rosselkhoznadzor Suspended the Import of Eight Tons of Frozen Dumplings from Kyrgyzstan

The Rosselkhoznadzor Administration for the Orenburg Region halted an attempt to illegally import 8.6 tons of frozen dumplings from Kyrgyzstan at the Russian-Kazakh border. The agency's press service reported this incident. It became known that the product did not meet veterinary requirements. Some of the dumplings lacked the necessary veterinary documents and had not undergone the full set of laboratory tests, which violates the sanitary standards of the Eurasian Economic Union.

13.01.2026, 17:06
Incidents

Incorrectly parked. The lawyer voluntarily paid the fine.

Due to the video recording published on January 12 on Instagram, the press service of the Bishkek Traffic Police reported that the lawyer decided to pay the fine on his own. Sherdor Abdykaparov, a well-known lawyer, parked his car in a zone where it is prohibited, thereby violating clause 12.4 of the Traffic Rules of the Kyrgyz Republic. After the incident, he contacted representatives of the Bishkek Traffic Police. As a result, a protocol on the offense was drawn up against the driver, and he

13.01.2026, 17:05
The antimonopoly agency threatened restaurants and cafes with fines for expensive menus
Economy

The antimonopoly agency threatened restaurants and cafes with fines for expensive menus

Complaints have been received by the editorial office of VB.KG from residents of Bishkek regarding the rising prices of dishes in restaurants and cafes following the cancellation of the service charge. In response to these concerns, we reached out to the Antimonopoly Regulation Service under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, where the situation was commented on by Chairman Jenaly Orozbaev.

13.01.2026, 17:03
Local news

Will Moscow Street Become Pedestrian? Response from the Bishkek City Hall

At a recent public hearing dedicated to the master plan for the development of Bishkek until 2050, city residents proposed the initiative to turn Moscow and Pushkin streets into pedestrian zones. In response to this proposal, the city administration presented its arguments. In an official statement, the municipality noted that Moscow Street is an important one-way thoroughfare and plays a key role in the transportation system, interacting with Toktogul Street.

13.01.2026, 17:02
Oil prices have risen to a maximum since November
In the world / Exclusive

Oil prices have risen to a maximum since November

On January 13, the price of March futures for Brent crude oil on the London ICE exchange exceeded $65 per barrel for the first time since November 18. This trend at the beginning of the year is linked to the U.S. operation in Venezuela and concerns surrounding events in Iran, which have raised market participants' worries about oil supply. Yesterday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the imposition of secondary sanctions against Iran's trading partners, including those purchasing

13.01.2026, 17:02
Local news

Fines and Lottery. What Will Make You Go to the Polls? Survey by 24.kg

In the recent early elections for the Jogorku Kenesh, only 36.9% of voters participated in the voting. This low turnout did not go unnoticed by President Sadyr Japarov, who mentioned it in his statements. In response to this situation, a bill was proposed in the new parliament aimed at increasing voter turnout. One of the proposals was to introduce fines for not participating in elections, which, however, is not the only proposal of the bill:

13.01.2026, 16:59
Local news

Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia will start exchanging prisoners

As of 2025, there are two citizens of Mongolia in the prisons of Kyrgyzstan. This was reported at a meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh Committee on Judicial System, Law Enforcement, and the Fight Against Crime by Deputy Prosecutor General Umutkan Konkubaeva. During the meeting, she presented to the deputies a draft agreement on extradition, which was signed on July 21 of last year during the state visit of the President of Mongolia to Kyrgyzstan.

13.01.2026, 16:48
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan expressed concern to the US Ambassador regarding new visa requirements.
Exclusive

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan expressed concern to the US Ambassador regarding new visa requirements.

While discussing current issues, the parties also touched upon the organization of the upcoming "B5+1" forum, scheduled for February 4-5, 2026, in Bishkek. The importance of the event was emphasized in the context of strengthening regional dialogue and expanding cooperation between Central Asia and the USA. The focus was on the new U.S. visa requirements for citizens of Kyrgyzstan concerning B-1 and B-2 categories. The Kyrgyz side expressed its concern over the introduction of these

13.01.2026, 16:47
Bishkek Residents Discussed the Capital's Master Plan Project Until 2050 at Hearings
Local news

Bishkek Residents Discussed the Capital's Master Plan Project Until 2050 at Hearings

In 2025, the Bishkek city administration, together with the Research Institute of Prospective Urban Development, prepared a draft General Plan that covers the development of the capital until 2050. This document takes into account the most important aspects such as demographics, infrastructure, and ecology. The relevant information was provided by the city municipality.

13.01.2026, 16:45
The FOMS reminded when hospitalization is free or subsidized for citizens.
Health / Exclusive

The FOMS reminded when hospitalization is free or subsidized for citizens.

The Mandatory Health Insurance Fund reported cases where hospitalization may be free or discounted for citizens. FOMS specialists noted an increase in calls to the hotline "113" from those facing financial difficulties when being admitted to hospitals. The main issue is the lack of a mandatory health insurance (MHI) policy, which leads to the necessity of paying for treatment at the maximum rate.

13.01.2026, 16:43
Bishkek CHPP is operating in normal mode - City Hall
Local news

Bishkek CHPP is operating in normal mode - City Hall

The city hall reported that the Bishkek CHPP is functioning in normal mode and fully meets the city's needs for thermal energy. As of January 13, the station demonstrates an average electrical capacity of 460 megawatts. The volume of thermal energy supplied amounted to 8,694 thousand gigacalories, while electricity generation reached 11,034 thousand kilowatt-hours. The CHPP consumes 7,470 thousand tons of coal and 390 thousand cubic meters of gas per day.

13.01.2026, 16:40
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic raised the issue of visa restrictions at a meeting with the US Ambassador.
Exclusive

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic raised the issue of visa restrictions at a meeting with the US Ambassador.

During the negotiations, as reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Kyrgyz side expressed its concern regarding the introduction of new conditions for obtaining B-1/B-2 visas. These changes, according to Kyrgyz representatives, may complicate travel for citizens and negatively impact trade and economic relations between the countries.

13.01.2026, 16:38
Local news

Four Citizens of Kyrgyzstan Deported from Mongolia

Four citizens of Kyrgyzstan were deported from Mongolia, as reported by Deputy Attorney General Ümütkan Konkubayeva at a meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh, which deals with issues of the judicial system, law enforcement, combating crime, and corruption. During this meeting, a draft law on the ratification of the Extradition Treaty between the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia, signed in Bishkek on July 21, 2025, was discussed. This document establishes the legal framework for the

13.01.2026, 16:37
Local news

In Tokmok, the "Kosmos" cinema reopened after renovation

Recently, a ceremonial opening of a cinema took place in Tokmok, which underwent reconstruction as part of a large project aimed at reviving cultural life in the regions. The implementation of this initiative is carried out by the LLC "Atlant Cinema" with the financial support of the Russian-Kyrgyz Development Fund (RKDF) on behalf of the President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov and with the support of the Cabinet of Ministers. As part of this project, $1 million 550 thousand was

13.01.2026, 16:34
Sports / Exclusive

Myktybek Orolbai Uulu Compared Himself to Rocky Balboa. Video

Kyrgyz UFC fighter, Myktybek Orolbai Uulu, drew parallels between himself and the legendary character Rocky Balboa from the eponymous film franchise. Orolbai Uulu recreated the famous training scene by running up the stairs leading to the entrance of the art museum in Philadelphia, which was a nod to the film.

13.01.2026, 16:29
Exclusive

Deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh proposed to declare Vladimir Solovyov a persona non grata in the Kyrgyz Republic

Dastan Bekeshev, a deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh, commented on Solovyov's statement, which caused a diplomatic conflict. On the air of the state channel, he suggested considering the possibility of military intervention in the affairs of Armenia and Central Asian countries to keep them within Russia's "sphere of influence." Bekeshev noted: "Although I did not listen to this broadcast myself, I familiarized myself with its content. I believe our Foreign Ministry should

13.01.2026, 16:28
On the Bankruptcy of Aliya Nazarbayeva's Ex-Husband, Negotiations with Chevron, and Marriage at 13 Years Old
Exclusive

On the Bankruptcy of Aliya Nazarbayeva's Ex-Husband, Negotiations with Chevron, and Marriage at 13 Years Old

Collage by Ulysmedia How to protect children from religious heresy, what is the reason for the Almaty city court's decision in favor of Aliya Nazarbaeva's ex-husband, what are the traditions of early marriages, why it is worth renaming Peak Nursultan to Qantar, and what agreements are being discussed between Kazakhstan and Chevron — all this in the new review of the Kazakh-language press by Nazira Darimbet. Children and the Struggle Between Science and Religion Democrat.kz published

13.01.2026, 16:25
Local news

Russia denied the repatriation of 144 citizens of Kyrgyzstan serving sentences in prisons, - prosecutor's office

Russia has rejected requests for the return of 144 citizens of Kyrgyzstan who are serving sentences in the country's prisons. Deputy Attorney General Ümütkan Konkubaeva shared this information during a meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh, which deals with issues related to the judicial system, law enforcement, combating crime, and countering corruption. Deputy Ulukbek Uzakbaev raised the question of whether the presence of a permanent representation of the General

13.01.2026, 16:20
Exclusive

The deputy questioned the correctness of outsourcing public services to private companies.

- At the meeting of the Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh on constitutional legislation, state structure, local self-government, and regulations, held on January 13, 2026, deputy Kubanychbek Samakov raised questions about the transfer of state and municipal services to private legal and physical entities. He also requested clarifications regarding the list of services that are planned to be outsourced. Deputy Minister of Economy Choro Seitov explained that this concerns only partial outsourcing

13.01.2026, 16:20