Elections in Kyrgyzstan. How the World Media Reacted to Them

Сергей Мацера Politics
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On November 30, early elections to the Jogorku Kenesh were held in Kyrgyzstan. Although the final results have not yet been announced, re-elections are expected in constituency No. 13. Nevertheless, some media outlets and international leaders have already expressed their opinions.

There was significant attention to the fact that a considerable number of deputies from the previous convocation remain in the new parliament.

Some publications simply reported the fact. For instance, RIA "Novosti" noted that "about 50 deputies from the last convocation are again entering the parliament of Kyrgyzstan."

Among them are former speaker Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu, co-chair of the inter-parliamentary commission Gulya Kozhokulova, the son of former president Seyidbek Atambaev, and the brother of the head of the State Committee for National Security Shaiyrbek Tashiev. Also occupying seats are well-known politicians such as Dastan Bekeshev, Elvira Surabaldiyeva, and Janar Akayev.

The RBC publication prepared a detailed analysis, including information about the gender quota and comments from OSCE observers. In particular, it was reported: "Although the law guarantees equal conditions for all candidates, financial capabilities varied, making competitive struggle difficult. During the elections, complaints about voter bribery were received; however, only nine cases were initiated." Observers noted that the week before the elections was marked by the arrests of prominent politicians on charges of organizing riots.

According to DW, out of 90 parliamentary seats, 50 may be occupied by representatives of the previous convocation, indicating that "the president's supporters are winning the elections."

On the eve of the elections, DW also emphasized that the gender quota is an important tool for increasing women's participation.

According to Reuters, allies of Japarov, judging by preliminary data, secured all seats except for a few.

The AP News publication noted that the elections took place under conditions of limited political competition, citing OSCE observers who pointed to the narrowing of freedoms in Kyrgyzstan. Reports of repression against the opposition in the country were also mentioned.

The Economist believes that the election results will help Japarov strengthen his power. The publication notes that the role of political parties is diminishing, complicating the creation of competitive structures for the opposition to the president in the 2027 elections.

It is emphasized that economic growth, partly due to Russian assistance circumventing sanctions, contributes to Japarov's popularity. "After three revolutions in two decades, some voters are willing to accept restrictions on political freedoms for the sake of stability," comments Deputy Prime Minister Edil Baisalov. Japarov stated: "The state is now strong. Coups will only happen in dreams now."

Al Jazeera also noted the diminishing role of political parties in the country.

Kazakhstani media published the election results and included a congratulatory message from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who congratulated Japarov on November 30, while polling stations were still open. Tokayev noted: "The parliamentary elections demonstrated nationwide support for your course towards building a strong state..." According to him, this also reflects the dynamic development of Kazakh-Kyrgyz relations.

The Tajik publication Asia-Plus emphasized voter turnout and reported that women could occupy a third of the seats in the new parliament, while SCO observers called the elections "open, free, and legitimate."
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