Many were surprised by the decision to dismiss the chairman of the State National Security Committee. The president's press secretary explained the situation, claiming that certain individuals using the name of Kamchybek Tashiev are seeking to divide society.
The public believes that the reason was the so-called "letter from 75 people." Can you tell us who is behind this "letter" and what their goal is?
- I did not intend to comment, but since you are asking, I will explain. In 2021, the people elected me president, entrusting me with the fate of the state and its citizens.
According to the Constitution, my duty is to maintain the integrity of the state and the unity of its people. I have strictly adhered to this duty because the interests of the state and the people are more important than any positions or friendships.
The situation began in the Jogorku Kenesh. Some deputy groups started to divide the deputies, asking the question: "Are you with us or with them?" To those who asked who "we" were, it was answered that "we are the generals," showing their epaulettes, while "they" were "the president's side." Thus, the division began.
Then this division affected the so-called "aksakals" on the street, who began collecting signatures for early elections, misleading people by claiming that this was "agreed at the highest level," and that the Jogorku Kenesh would soon announce early elections.
If I had not taken urgent measures, this could have spread to ordinary citizens, leading to a split among the people. I had facts that deputies and some officials were being intimidated, told: "If you do not join our side, you will face the general." This was the reason for my decision.
Before making the decision, I called a friend and explained the situation, after which I relieved him of his position. I believe that by taking such a swift step, I protected my friend, as those surrounding him were leading him astray.
Individuals hiding behind the name of Kamchybek Tashiev approached deputies and prominent figures with an offer to join the general's side.
If I had not relieved Kamchybek Tashiev of his position, such actions could have intensified, leading to a split among government employees and society. Therefore, I made the decision to relieve him. For me, the stability of the state is a priority.
- Society speaks of the "Japarov team" and the "Tashiev team." How do you respond to this?
- There is no division in personnel appointments. Each appointment undergoes thorough scrutiny. I set the task for both Kamchybek Tashiev and other leaders to propose professional personnel for the benefit of the state. I continue to adhere to this approach. Therefore, there are no "teams."
- It is said that before the elections, there was an agreement between you and Kamchybek Tashiev: "one term — him, another — his friend." How true is this?
- Kyrgyzstan is a democratic state. The question of who will govern the country is decided by the people, not a narrow group of individuals. The Constitution guarantees everyone the right to participate in elections, and the president is the one whom the people trust the most. Therefore, discussions about "agreements" contradict democratic principles.
- What is the purpose of the appeal to the Constitutional Court?
- I believe that the doubts and disputes arising in society should receive a legal response. The Constitutional Court is the body that can provide a definitive determination and legal assessment of all discussions related to the Constitution. Therefore, appealing to the court on this matter is a logical step.
- Can the criticism from some deputies and the "letter from 75 people" be considered part of one campaign?
- Investigative activities are currently underway. The investigation will show how significant the initiative you are talking about was and how many people participated in it. There may be more than currently reported, but only the completion of the investigation will provide a precise answer.
- The chairman of the Jogorku Kenesh has resigned. Is this related to the letter from 75 people?
- I cannot assert that this is directly related. Perhaps he was influenced by the organizers or realized his responsibility for the division that began among the deputies.
- What reforms are expected in the State National Security Committee?
- The State National Security Committee has successfully fulfilled its functions, and in some aspects, even exceeded them. However, the state must develop and adapt to new challenges. The reform of the State National Security Committee will be carried out taking into account modern threats and changes in the world.
The world is changing, and our state institutions must evolve along with it.
- Some accuse representatives of the special services of using Tashiev's name for personal gain. Will these facts be investigated?
- We do not shield those who violate the law, regardless of their status. The law is above all, and this rule applies to everyone, including our close ones. If facts of law violations are identified, they will be investigated, and the guilty will be held accountable. Before the law, all are equal.
- The people refer to you and Kamchybek Tashiev as "two friends." Does this mean that your friendship has ended?
- Our friendship will remain. By relieving Kamchybek Kydyrshaevich, I explained the situation to him and only then made the decision. My decision was made for the peace and unity of the people. Friendship should not be tied to positions.
- What about the fight against corruption and crime: will it continue?
- The fight against corruption and crime will never cease. I demand results in this direction and will continue to do so. All public servants understand this. In our country, crime and corruption must be eradicated.
Director of KNAI "Kabar" Mederbek Shermetaliev
