Gulya Akmatkulovna Kozhokulova is a name familiar to every Kyrgyzstani. She has been a deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic of the VII convocation from the party "Butun Kyrgyzstan" since 2021 and a member of the Committee on Constitutional Legislation, Judicial and Legal Issues.
In an interview with the publication "VES 24," Gulya shared her views on the most pressing issues concerning Kyrgyzstani citizens, including education, corruption, and the inefficiency of officials. This candid conversation will undoubtedly help to better understand her perspectives and commitments to her constituents.
"I do not approve of discussing car tinting"
- The Jogorku Kenesh has completed its work ahead of schedule. After almost four years of work, we can summarize the activities of the parliament. What achievements did the deputies of the 7th convocation have, and what remains undone?
- It is indeed difficult to answer this question unequivocally, as there were both positive and negative aspects. Overall, significant work has been done, as evidenced by the changes occurring in the country. The responsibility of officials has increased, and a comprehensive anti-corruption package of laws has been adopted. Society demands that officials not only speak but also demonstrate real results from their activities. We see how the composition of the government is being renewed, with many young people becoming active participants in public and political life.
The adoption of a new Constitutional Law on Elections, which will come into effect upon the election of new deputies, is also an important achievement. The responsibility for crimes related to domestic violence has increased, allowing women to openly discuss their problems. This is important, as the family is the foundation of our society, and there should be no violence within it.
The responsibility for attacks on medical workers and teachers has also been increased, which helps to protect their honor and dignity while performing their official duties.
Regarding tax legislation, I believe my colleagues have achieved good results, taking into account the opinions of entrepreneurs, especially small and medium-sized businesses.
I have repeatedly raised issues regarding the material support of our military personnel, especially border guards who serve in difficult conditions. Recently, the government resolved this issue, allowing military personnel to acquire official housing, in which they have lived for over 20 years.
As for shortcomings, they were also present. For example, the discussion on car tinting took too much time, and this issue could have been resolved without adopting a law. The same applies to casinos and other matters that should be regulated by the executive branch.
I believe we made a serious mistake when we relieved the state of responsibility for providing meals for children in kindergartens. This is extremely important, as many young families cannot afford to pay for their children's meals. Our large families are experiencing serious difficulties, and the state must help them, as this concerns the health of the younger generation.
"The parliament has sufficient powers; they just need to be used effectively"
- Do you think you have enough powers to address the key tasks of the state, considering that the parliament controls the work of the Cabinet?
- The powers of deputies have indeed been reduced, and we do not participate in the appointment of ministers; we only approve their candidacies. However, our oversight functions are enshrined in the Constitution and the regulations of the Jogorku Kenesh. Unfortunately, these functions have not always been performed properly. We must oversee how laws are implemented and check their effectiveness.
Regarding the appointment of ministers, I believe that the Cabinet and the president should form their team, but deputies should hold them accountable for their work. Unfortunately, criticism often prevails over constructive dialogue, and we need to demand more from the executive branch in fulfilling their duties. The parliament has sufficient functionality; it just needs to be used correctly.
- You are proficient in the state language, but you speak in Russian in parliament. Why is that?
- Kyrgyz is my native language, but I also speak Russian fluently, as I grew up speaking it. It is a language of friendship and interethnic communication. In the seventh convocation of the Jogorku Kenesh, there were no representatives of Slavic nationalities, and I speak in Russian out of respect for people of different nationalities living in our country. My colleagues understand this and support me, and I am grateful to them for that. The Russian language has official status in our Constitution, and it should be respected.
History and Its Reinterpretation
- What is your attitude towards the revision of historical facts concerning the Great Patriotic War and the Soviet period?
- I am categorically against this. Every family in Kyrgyzstan keeps the memory of their relatives who participated in the war or worked in the rear. My family also suffered from the war: two uncles went missing. We have no right to forget this. The children of war, who lost their parents, worked from a young age, and thanks to their efforts, the country was able to endure. Our history is a collective memory that we cannot ignore.
Some young people say that if Hitler had won, we would have lived better. This is a distorted understanding. Hitler planned the extermination of many nations, and only thanks to our victory in the war did we preserve our identity and culture. We cannot forget our roots and the sacrifices made for our freedom.
- What are your thoughts on the migration and employment of Kyrgyzstani citizens in Russia?
- Migration is an important topic that requires attention. We have collaborated with our Russian colleagues to improve conditions for our citizens working in Russia. It is necessary to create opportunities for taking Russian language tests in Kyrgyzstan so that our citizens can start working immediately upon arrival. This will help them save time and resources.
We are also discussing the possibility of creating centers for learning the Russian language that can issue certificates accredited in Russia. This will relieve our citizens of unnecessary difficulties and simplify their lives in another country.
I hope that we can resolve these issues in the near future, as they are important for the future of our youth.
- How do you see reforms in the education sector in Kyrgyzstan?
- Education reform is a crucial task, and I see that public opinion on this is mixed. Education is the foundation of our state's development. I believe we needed to go through experimental projects before implementing changes. We have wonderful teachers, and we cannot lose their potential.
- What principles guide you in life?
- I value respect and fairness. My life principle is respect for people and recognition of their dignity. I also respect professionalism and a sense of humor. All of this makes communication easier and more pleasant.
I am grateful to my family, which has shaped me as a person, and I hope to pass these values on to my children and grandchildren.
