In an interview, the president noted that his press secretary had already provided a brief explanation regarding Tashiev's resignation. The main reason was the attempts by certain individuals using Tashiev's name to create a rift in society.
It became known that the reason for the resignation was the so-called "letter of 75 people." The president was asked who was behind this mysterious document and what their goals were.
— I did not plan to comment on this, but since you asked, here is my answer.
Initially, in 2021, the people entrusted me with managing the country by electing me president. According to the Constitution, my duty is to maintain the unity of the people and the state. I have strictly adhered to this responsibility.
The interests of the state and the people must always take precedence over any official positions and personal connections.
The situation began with the Jogorku Kenesh, where some groups of deputies started to divide their colleagues by asking, "Whose side are you on?" Their division became evident when some deputies began to manipulate by referring to the "general's side" and the "president's side."
This rift also affected the so-called "aksakals," who began collecting signatures for early elections, misleading people by claiming that this was "agreed upon with the supreme authority."
If I had not taken urgent measures, this could have led to a division among ordinary citizens. I had information that some deputies and civil servants were being intimidated, so it was necessary to make a decision.
Before relieving Tashiev of his duties, I called him and explained the situation. I believe this decision helped protect him.
Some "aksakals" were steering him off course, appealing to other deputies to switch to the general's side.
If I had not dismissed Tashiev, such actions would have only intensified, potentially leading to conflicts in society and state structures. Therefore, stabilizing the situation in the country was a priority for me.
— Society is discussing the division into "Japarov's team" and "Tashiev's team." How do you comment on this?
— There are no divisions in personnel appointments. Each appointment undergoes thorough scrutiny. I have always required everyone, including Tashiev, to propose professional personnel for the benefit of the state, and this requirement remains unchanged.
Thus, the division into "Japarov's team" and "Tashiev's team" does not exist.
— It was previously claimed that there was some agreement: "one term for him, another term for his close friend." How true is this?
— Kyrgyzstan is a democratic country. The leadership of the country is determined not by a small group, but by the people of Kyrgyzstan.
According to the Constitution, every citizen has the right to participate in elections. The president is the one who enjoys the trust of the people and has a high rating.
Talk of "one term for one, the next for another" contradicts democratic principles and political culture. This can be seen as an attempt to deprive the people of their right to choose.
— Why did you appeal to the Constitutional Court?
— I believe that all doubts and questions should be resolved legally. Kyrgyzstan has a Constitutional Court that can provide a final interpretation on constitutional issues. Therefore, appealing there is the right step.
— Can we link the criticism from certain deputies to the "75 people" campaign?
— Currently, investigative actions are being conducted that will reveal the scale of the initiative and the number of participants. Perhaps there were even more than are known now. I will provide a precise answer after the investigation is completed.
— The chairman of the Jogorku Kenesh left voluntarily. Is this related to the "letter of 75 people"?
— I cannot assert a direct connection. Perhaps he was influenced by these people or realized his mistake and responsibility for the division among the deputies.
— What reforms are expected for the GKNB?
— The GKNB has fulfilled its mission, but the time requires changes. National security faces new challenges, and we must adapt to modern threats and global changes. A reform will be conducted that will address these challenges.
— Will the allegations of abuse by security service employees be investigated?
— We do not have a practice of covering up illegal actions. The law is the same for everyone. If facts of abuse of power are revealed, they will definitely be investigated. Responsibility is for all.
— It is said that you and Tashiev are "two friends." Has your friendship ended?
— The friendship remains. I explained the situation to him before making the decision. This was done for the peace and unity of the state and the people.
It is wrong to associate friendship with positions or interests.
— Last question: will the fight against corruption and crime continue?
— This fight will never stop. I demand results in this area and will continue to do so. There should be no place for either crime or corruption in our country.
