Arslan Koichiev, the Secretary of State of the Kyrgyz Republic, spoke on Kyrgyz Radio, emphasizing that the awarding process should be based on sequence and traditions, reflecting the continuity of the nation and its state identity.
He added that the existing system of state awards requires updating and moving to a higher quality level.
“Criticism that undeserving individuals receive awards is heard quite often. There is an opinion on the need to revise the criteria for selecting awardees. I support this viewpoint and am one of those who initiates reforms in this area. If we do not take steps towards change, dissatisfaction among the population will only grow. We need to create clearer and higher standards for requirements,” Koichiev noted.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the discussion of the proposed reform project has sparked active debates, particularly regarding the titles of "People's Writer" and "People's Poet of Kyrgyzstan."
“I fully support the opinions of the proposal authors. The names of such great poets as Aaly Tokombaev and Suyunbai Eraliyev are foundational for our literature and culture. The removal of their honorary titles would be inappropriate. Recently, there has been criticism of these titles due to a decrease in their significance. We need to significantly raise the requirements for receiving such awards,” he concluded.
