In this context, various expert opinions have emerged — from recommendations for the scandal participants to remain silent to assertions that the state must see the matter through and cannot back down.
24.kg gathered expert opinions on the alarming aspects of what is happening, the reasons for the harsh rhetoric, and whether this is a genuine fight against corruption or merely a new stage in the struggle for power.
Nurbek Toktakunov: It’s better to exercise the right to remain silent
Photo from personal archive. Nurbek Toktakunov
Nurbek Toktakunov, lawyer:
— Tai-Muras Tashiev should exercise his "right to remain silent" after the recent revelations by the State Tax Service and the interrogation at the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Everything he says could be used against his father. Even if his justifications are serious, he may provide additional evidence of his father's involvement, a government member and head of the special services, in corrupt schemes related to state procurement.
Moreover, in justifying his actions, Tai-Muras cites the volumes of purchases, but where did he get such data if they are not publicly available? Perhaps he obtained them through connections with the management of the oil refinery, which also indicates corrupt interactions.
If the state has already made information about such a clan public, it must continue the investigation to the end — there is no turning back.
Zainidin Kurmanov: Corruption as a mechanism of governance
Zainidin Kurmanov, Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor:
— It’s time to open our eyes! We cannot continue as before. The tax service has uncovered yet another shocking scheme related to "Kyrgyzneftegaz." This enterprise promised us 300 years of oil independence in the 90s, but discussions about it have faded over time. The plant continued to operate, extracting oil, of which we were completely unaware.
The elites exhibit greed not as a result of personal shortcomings, but as a systemic problem. Corruption is becoming not an exception but the main mechanism of governance. In traditional societies, loyalty to the clan surpasses loyalty to the state. Officials perceive their positions as an opportunity to help "their own." During the transitional period, a "legal vacuum" arises, where personal agreements are more important than laws.
Society does not see power as an institution of service. If the "boss" is not wealthy, it is perceived as a weakness. Politicians strive to showcase their wealth rather than honesty, which breeds discontent among the people. How can we praise thieves?
The fight against corruption is not just about loud arrests but involves comprehensive measures, including:
Digitalization to eliminate the human factor.
Economic freedom and reduction of regulation.
Independence of the judicial system and inevitability of punishment.
Transparency in public procurement and oversight by citizens.
Decent wages for civil servants.
Complete eradication of corruption is unlikely, but its level can be significantly reduced. Examples from Japan, Singapore, and Georgia show that with political will, the situation can change over decades. However, without public demand, reforms may only simulate a fight. People are tired of watching the elites live off society.
Musurkul Kabyldekov: The Tax Service's statements mark the end of the "backroom" stage
Musurkul Kabyldekov, political scientist:
— The very fact that this issue is raised at the level of a state institution — the Tax Service — says a lot. It indicates that an important step has been taken in the fight, and there is no turning back for either side.
In the case of a private investigation, it could have been hushed up, but the statement from the Tax Service, which previously did not deal with such matters, indicates that the situation is indeed serious. We see how state bodies conduct investigations and announce such facts, which, of course, could not fail to elicit a reaction from other oversight structures, such as the General Prosecutor's Office. As a result, a criminal case has been initiated.
If the facts presented by the Tax Service are confirmed — which is quite likely, otherwise the service would lose its reputation — it means that everything is coordinated at the highest level. Information does not appear without corresponding decisions. This is already a systemic fight, not just political rivalry. The attempt to portray Kamchybek Tashiev as a corrupt official and initiate a criminal case against him could effectively remove him from the political game.
All the schemes in question are, one way or another, connected to his relatives, and this was known beforehand. The probable initiation of a criminal case could also affect his son, as once a case is opened, it must be pursued. A side effect may be that financial flows that previously went into private pockets will start flowing into the state budget, at least for a while, until a final decision is made regarding the company.
From a political standpoint, this means that the struggle has begun in earnest, and it will be difficult for Kamchybek Tashiev to continue. He has long held back, which was justified until his key interests were touched. Although he did not respond to accusations and pressure from businesses, citing the inappropriateness of the conflict, now that he is being openly accused of corruption, he cannot remain silent.
If he returned to the country without loud statements, it means he intends to fight. The question is where this will lead: to a compromise, the search for scapegoats, or further escalation.
Given Kamchybek Tashiev's character, his return was expected. Otherwise, he could completely lose his electorate and exit the political life of Kyrgyzstan. His return indicates a desire to defend his positions and protect his loved ones, which aligns with his style.
Most likely, the most interesting events are yet to come. His entourage may have already developed a strategy. The return of the former head of the State National Security Committee is not a spontaneous decision but a carefully considered step. He has serious obligations to supporters, relatives, and people under investigation. In such a situation, remaining abroad would effectively mean erasing himself from political life — both in the eyes of society and his own supporters.
Tologon Keldibaev: Legality will always prevail
Tologon Keldibaev, political scientist:
— Around high-ranking officials, there are always those who commit crimes for profit. It doesn’t matter who it is — Tashiev or someone else; his entourage often puts their own interests first. Tashiev's entourage may have been involved in corrupt schemes and abuse of power.
When Kamchybek Tashiev held the positions of head of the State National Security Committee and deputy prime minister, it was impossible to hold people from his circle accountable — even if violations were obvious, they were overlooked. After his departure, the pressure eased, and entrepreneurs began to openly voice their problems. Legality may not function temporarily, but sooner or later it will prevail. I am confident that the actions of the Tashievs will be assessed, and everything will be thoroughly investigated.
Tashiev did a lot of good but also made serious mistakes.
He made significant efforts to combat organized crime and corruption, which helped limit corrupt schemes in the social sphere and law enforcement agencies. However, his main problem was holding too much power.
