This resignation radically changed the political landscape of Kyrgyzstan, attracting the interest of neighboring countries.
Many publications did not limit themselves to merely reporting this fact but attempted to conduct their own analysis. Kaktus.media gathered the most notable opinions.
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Tengrinews.kz published a detailed commentary by political scientist Sultan Akimbekov, who emphasizes the significance of Tashiev's resignation in the current political conditions of Kyrgyzstan.“Although at first glance this may seem like just the dismissal of a high-ranking official, in reality, it reflects serious, almost tectonic changes in the country. In recent years, Kyrgyzstan has experienced a de facto dual power situation, where President Japarov and Tashiev held equal positions,” the analyst points out.
This coexistence of power occurred against the backdrop of intense political rivalry, characteristic of Kyrgyzstan over the past two decades.
In 2020, during the escalation of internal political struggle, Japarov and Tashiev came to power together.
“Over the past five years, Tashiev has significantly strengthened his influence, as the GKNB under his leadership expanded its powers and became a notable force,” notes Akimbekov.
“He attracted attention by making loud statements and punishing officials. With the upcoming presidential elections in 2027, more and more questions arose about his role,” he adds.“With Tashiev's resignation, a new era begins with unpredictable consequences,” concludes the political scientist.
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Kursiv.media.uz also commented on the situation, turning to Stanislav Pritchin, an expert at the Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Sciences.In his opinion, “Tashiev, as head of the special services, consistently strengthened his powers, expanding the influence of his supporters in business and controlling key facilities.”
“The GKNB became a powerful special service, controlling border services and holding part of the powers of the General Prosecutor's Office,” notes Pritchin.“Until February 10, the GKNB had extensive powers and controlled many aspects of public life. Tashiev's support in parliament and at the regional level was also growing,” he adds.
Pritchin emphasizes that the further development of events depends on the consistency of the actions of the new leadership.
“Japarov's action is a significant step. It will be difficult for Tashiev to regain his former influence without a direct conflict with the president,” the analyst summarizes.
He also commented on the possible presidential elections, emphasizing that “if Japarov excludes Tashiev from the electoral race, it will help create a new center of power.”
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RBK (Russia) detailed Tashiev's resignation and the subsequent changes.The publication quotes Darya Saprynskaya, a researcher at the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences: “There are several versions of the resignation, and all of them are related to possible early elections. We should not rush to conclusions. We are already seeing how the heads of law enforcement agencies are changing, and the border service has been removed from the GKNB's subordination. Purges are ongoing, and the question of how deeply they will affect Tashiev's connections remains open.”
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“Kommersant” also covered the situation, pointing to Tashiev's influence and the upcoming elections in January 2027.***
BBC reports that “the second most popular politician in Kyrgyzstan, Tashiev, has been dismissed from his position as head of the country's main special service.”
The publication notes that, according to IRI polls, Tashiev's rating has risen from 14% to 22% in recent years, while the level of trust in Japarov remained at 35-38%. Tashiev's brother, Shairbek, became the most popular candidate in the last parliamentary elections.
According to the publication, “although the official electoral race has not yet begun, some politicians have already initiated questions about the possibility of early elections. A day before Tashiev's dismissal, Japarov and the speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh received a petition for new elections, signed by 75 individuals, including former prime ministers and public figures.
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Reuters reports that Tashiev's resignation was an unexpected move against one of the most influential officials and a long-time ally of Japarov.The publication notes that this step was motivated by a desire to “strengthen unity” and prevent a split in society and state structures.
Reuters emphasizes that Japarov and Tashiev believed they had managed to put an end to years of political instability in the country.
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The Diplomat noted that Japarov and Tashiev achieved significant successes together.Dr. Aksana Ismailbekova, a researcher at ZMO, pointed out the lack of clear separation of powers between them, adding that “Tashiev was responsible not only for security but also for social projects.”
The publication also raises questions about possible early elections, emphasizing that Tashiev's dismissal could either be the beginning of intrigue or a sign of a split.
“There are two main viewpoints,” says Ismailbekova. “Some believe that Tashiev will run for president, while others suggest a scenario similar to the agreement between Putin and Medvedev in Russia, where both figures remain in power, swapping places.”
