On January 28 of this year, it marked exactly five years since he took office. Nevertheless, various international organizations point to a deterioration in the situation regarding freedom of speech, noting the arrests of journalists and activists.
Despite this, the president assures that "freedom of speech is no less now than it was before."
According to him, citizens actively express their opinions on social media and in the press, discussing both social and political issues. "People write and shoot videos, publish them, no one stops them. They can freely share their thoughts on any issues," he added.
Regarding the arrests, Japarov noted that arrests occur only in relation to those who threaten constitutional order.
He emphasized: "Some people may say that human rights are being violated. But it is important to remember that freedom of speech and democracy come with responsibility. Law enforcement does not arrest for criticism, but only those who, under the guise of freedom of speech, try to organize riots or call for violations of constitutional order. Detention is not a joke, and such measures are taken only after sufficient evidence is gathered," the president explained.
Additionally, Japarov commented on the court's decision to ban rallies in the center of Bishkek. Currently, according to the court ruling, peaceful assemblies are only permitted in Gorky Park.
"If someone wants to hold an event, they should gather in Gorky Park, invite the media, and express their position. The main thing is not to interfere with the work of government agencies. This is a practice common in many countries," he concluded.
