Kyrgyz Supreme Court Upholds Harsh Sentences for Temirov Live Journalists

February 25, 2025 – Kyrgyzstan – 

Kyrgyzstan’s Supreme Court upheld the convictions of three journalists from the investigative outlet Temirov Live, a significant blow to press freedom in the country. Director Makhabat Tazhibek kyzy received a six-year prison sentence, presenter Azamat Ishenbekov was sentenced to five years, and reporter Aike Beishekeyeva was handed a five-year suspended sentence. These sentences stem from charges of “calling for mass unrest,” a claim widely criticized by international human rights organizations as politically motivated and aimed at silencing independent journalism.

The convictions are part of a broader crackdown on independent media in Kyrgyzstan. Temirov Live, known for its anti-corruption investigations, has faced increasing pressure from authorities, including the arrest of 11 journalists in January 2024. While some were later acquitted or received probation, the harsh sentences for Tazhibek kyzy, Ishenbekov, and Beishekeyeva underscore the government’s intent to suppress dissenting voices.

International watchdogs, including the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), have condemned the Supreme Court’s decision. They argue that the charges lack credible evidence and are part of a systematic effort to intimidate journalists and restrict freedom of expression.

The situation has drawn attention from the European Parliament, with representatives attending the trial and expressing concern over the erosion of democratic principles in Kyrgyzstan. Despite these international appeals, the Kyrgyz government has maintained its stance, with President Sadyr Japarov dismissing the journalists as “not real” and accusing them of spreading false information.

The case of the Temirov Live journalists highlights the growing challenges faced by independent media in Kyrgyzstan and raises serious questions about the country’s commitment to upholding human rights and democratic values. As the international community continues to monitor the situation, calls for the release of these journalists and the protection of press freedom in Kyrgyzstan persist.

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Kyrgyzstan Supreme Court upholds lengthy prison terms for Temirov Live journalists