Azmat Kasibekov, head of the Independent Union of Journalists of Kyrgyzstan, expressed his opinion on his social media page about the four-part documentary project titled "President" by Aibek Biibosunov. In this post, he shares his thoughts on the film, politics, and the fates of people.
“I recently watched the author’s film 'President,' created by the renowned journalist Aibek Biibosunov. I decided to wait until all episodes were released before sharing my opinion. Many have already discussed the artistic merits, pointing out genre inconsistencies or excessive length. However, I will say just one thing: I liked the film,” he noted.
The project is executed at a high professional level, with nuances and some theatrical elements, but without overt propaganda. In my opinion, this film serves as a summary of the five-year presidency. Special attention should be paid to the moment when Vice Prime Minister Kamchybek Kydyrshaevich recalls a conversation with the president immediately after his appointment, where ambitious goals were discussed: the return of Kumtor, the fight against corruption, the confrontation with organized crime, and resolving border issues.
Overall, the duumvirate has coped with these tasks. Although I would argue with the head of the State Committee for National Security regarding the claim that 30% of corruption remains to be defeated. The first term of Japarov resembles a Soviet five-year plan with the slogan “catch up and overtake.” People worked tirelessly, giving their all, and worked around the clock. As a result, the president has noticeably aged over these five years: his hair has turned gray, and his face has become wrinkled.
I think that at that moment he was already contemplating the next five-year plan, which can be inferred from his unspoken words. Moreover, Kamchybek Tashiev clearly stated his support for his friend in the upcoming presidential elections. The president also lifted the veil on plans for the next 5-6 years, including major infrastructure projects such as the China–Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan railway and the construction of hydroelectric power stations, which, according to him, will ensure GDP growth. He claims that the economy has begun to move forward.
I agree that in the coming years, we should focus as much as possible on the economy. It is important not only to increase the budget but also to live within our means. The period of prosperity should be used wisely: to create stabilization funds, develop the real sector of the economy, export, and tourism — areas where less investment can yield greater returns. As for the president's ambition to enter the top ten most developed countries, this seems unlikely; however, if Kyrgyzstan experiences sustainable economic growth over the next 10-20 years, people will feel confident, they will have jobs and opportunities to engage in business — why not?
I do not always trust people, but I believe in numbers. The statistics presented in the film show an increase in state revenues and an increase in the liquidity of state assets. At the same time, it is important not to forget about small and medium-sized businesses, as this sector accounts for over 40% of GDP. It is not surprising that the president recently introduced a package of tax and regulatory relief for entrepreneurs.
The film reveals the true face of the president. I have written and analyzed his personality extensively. Behind the image of a simple "elpek bala" lies a tough pragmatist who has gone through the difficult trials of life. I relate to this approach to work, with a cool mind and an understanding of human nature. This was especially evident during the Kyrgyz-Tajik conflict when, despite pressure and protests, he was the first to approach Emomali Rahmon with a proposal for peace. This yielded results. In the midst of conflict, he maintained his human qualities, which is probably the most challenging aspect of life.
I have long noticed that there is a need for the memoir genre in Kyrgyzstan. It would be right for politicians to leave their memories of how decisions are actually made, what politics looks like from the inside, and how people behave under pressure. This is important for the future generation. In this context, the film "President" can be viewed as a memoir project that demonstrates the necessity and demand for such a genre,” concluded Azamat Kasibekov.
