He emphasized that he spoke out because his name was mentioned in the discussion, and the issues being discussed are directly related to his involvement in key processes in the energy sector. Isakov also noted that Japarov's statements about the causes of the energy crisis are not true, and that the president is being presented with distorted or incomplete data, which is why he decided to remind everyone of some facts.
About the capital's CHPP
Isakov pointed out that the president's words about there being "no power plants built between 2011 and 2017" are not true. He reminded everyone about the modernization of the Bishkek CHPP and the construction of new energy blocks.“Accusations against the modernization of the CHPP regarding 'inflated costs' and allegedly stolen funds are unfounded and stem from politically motivated cases initiated under Sooronbay Jeenbekov. The project was implemented under an intergovernmental agreement, where financing came directly from the Export-Import Bank of China to the contractor TBEA, which excluded the involvement of Kyrgyz officials in corruption. Moreover, comparisons of costs with similar projects in Tajikistan mislead the public, as key details have been omitted,” Isakov noted.
In his opinion, the Kyrgyz agreement was one of the most transparent and beneficial in the region, and attempts to contrast it with the Tajik experience are a continuation of political accusations.
“This campaign was initiated for political retribution and continues to this day, despite the fact that the modernized CHPP prevents an energy collapse in Bishkek, unlike the accidents at the old part of the station, the repair costs of which the authorities hide from the public,” he added.
About the Upper Naryn Cascade
Isakov also reminded about the signing of an agreement with "RusHydro" in 2012 for the construction of the Upper Naryn Cascade of HPPs. The agreement stipulated that the Russian side was to provide 100% of the investments, while the Kyrgyz side was responsible for preparing the construction site. However, in 2015, the Russian side announced the suspension of the project due to financial difficulties.“The project was frozen, and after that, the Jogorku Kenesh denounced the agreement. 'RusHydro' demanded compensation of $37 million for allegedly incurred costs, which raised doubts within the Kyrgyz government. An independent audit was proposed, but the Russian side refused and went to court. The denunciation was not aimed at 'sabotaging' or 'closing' the project, but rather to give Kyrgyzstan the opportunity to negotiate with new investors without obligations to a partner that could not continue the project,” Isakov emphasized.
About the reconstruction of the Toktogul HPP
He also reported that important decisions regarding the reconstruction of the Toktogul HPP were made in 2016, and construction work began in May 2017, with contracts signed.“Strategic agreements and project financing relate to the tenure of Almazbek Atambayev. All subsequent steps were a continuation of the course, not initiatives created by other political forces,” Isakov added.
About the current electricity deficit
Isakov also touched upon the issue of mining farms operating in Kyrgyzstan. Earlier, Kamchybek Tashiev stated that their activities were suspended until the end of March 2026 due to the electricity deficit.“Unfortunately, the population is forced to live according to blackout schedules and save electricity, while mining farms continue to consume large amounts of electricity. At the same time, there is no data on the actual benefits from this sector. The question arises: was an honest cost-benefit analysis conducted that reflects whether the potential profit justifies the risks to Kyrgyzstan's energy security? What has been done in the last five years to strengthen the system? What modernization projects have been completed, and what measures could enhance the resilience of the sector? Why have no steps been taken to mitigate the current situation?” Isakov questioned.
The former Prime Minister noted that the business community in Kyrgyzstan is unprotected in this situation.
“The business community is also asking questions. Why does business face administrative pressure instead of support? Where are the tax, credit, and regulatory reliefs to compensate for the damage from outages?” he added.
Isakov emphasizes that society has the right to complete and accurate information about measures to combat the crisis, the anticipated deficit, and its consequences for the economy and social sphere.
“People need a clear action plan with calculations, forecasts, and risk assessments, not fragmented statements,” he concluded.
Isakov added that the authorities should approach decision-making thoughtfully, conduct a deep analysis of the situation, and be open to society, noting that the rhetoric of blaming predecessors does not solve existing problems.
Shifting responsibility to the "last 30 years" or blaming previous authorities will not help solve current problems and strengthen the energy system. It is important to understand that today people are being given conditions, not opportunities.“No matter how hard they try to deny the obvious, the responsibility now lies with those who have taken on the powers and made promises to the people. Their decisions determine the current state of the country,” Isakov summarized.
