The verdict was issued on February 13, 2025. Zheenetaev, who previously worked as a designer for several newspapers, was detained in November 2025. A criminal case was initiated against him under Article 278, Part 3 "Calls for Mass Riots" and Article 332, Part 1 "Manufacturing, Distribution, Transportation, or Mailing of Extremist Materials" of the Criminal Code of Kyrgyzstan.
The charges were based on his publications on social media, where he commented on current events and criticized the actions of the authorities.
A forensic linguistic examination confirmed the presence of calls for mass riots in his posts.
At this time, the defense has not received a copy of the verdict, and the lawyer, along with family members, intends to appeal the court's decision in higher instances.
Currently, Ernist Zheenetaev is in the pre-trial detention center in Bishkek. He has three minor children, and his mother is seriously ill and bedridden. His wife works as a teacher in one of the public schools.
