It is worth noting that on March 10, the Supreme Court annulled the previously issued sentence and sent the case for reconsideration.
Gulnoza Said, CPJ's representative for the regions of Europe and Central Asia, commented: "We are pleased that the Supreme Court overturned the sentence; this is an important step towards justice and the protection of press freedom."
The case of Mahabat Tajibek kyzy has generated significant resonance on the international stage; human rights organizations have repeatedly urged the Kyrgyz authorities to review the sentence.
CPJ emphasizes that the annulment of the sentence by the Supreme Court gives hope for a fair trial. The organization also calls on the Kyrgyz authorities to guarantee the protection of press freedom and to stop the persecution of independent journalists.
Recall that in January 2024, Mahabat Tajibek kyzy was detained along with ten colleagues from Temirov Live, who were charged with organizing mass riots. On February 25, 2025, the appeal of three of the detainees was considered by the judicial panel of the Supreme Court, which upheld the decision of the previous instance: Mahabat Tajibek kyzy was sentenced to six years in prison, Azamat Ishenbekov received five years, and Aike Beyshikeeva was sentenced to three years of probation. Aktilek Kaparov received three years of probation without appeal, while the other seven individuals were acquitted due to lack of evidence of a crime.
In 2026, the defense of Mahabat Tajibek kyzy filed a petition to reopen the case based on newly discovered circumstances.
