In their address, they emphasize the importance of discussing issues related to law enforcement practices in recent years, especially concerning journalists, activists, and citizens accused under Article 278 "Organization of Mass Riots" of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic and other articles.
Journalists and human rights defenders have repeatedly raised alarms about freedom of speech and expression in the country, noting that they remain under threat.
According to data from open sources, many citizens have been held accountable under Article 278 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic. At the same time, the actions of the authorities have restricted access to several media resources, and some journalists have faced criminal prosecution, resulting in several of them leaving the country.
In light of recent changes in security agencies and public demand for legal clarity and justice, journalists are calling for the following measures:
- to conduct an additional review and, if grounds are found, to reconsider court decisions in cases involving journalists and activists related to Article 278 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic;
- to provide a legal assessment of the validity of the sentences issued;
- to utilize the legal mechanisms for rehabilitation in cases of identified violations;
- to cease criminal prosecution in cases where there are insufficient legal grounds;
- to create conditions for the return of citizens who left the country due to criminal prosecution;
- to conduct an official and legal assessment of the actions of officials in cases of possible procedural violations;
- to consider the possibility of compensation for damages in cases of established violations of citizens' rights.
Journalists are confident that an open and objective consideration of these issues will help restore public trust in state institutions and contribute to the further development of Kyrgyzstan based on the principles of legality and democracy.
