These words were spoken in response to a question about whether Tashiev's recent resignation signifies the end of their friendship, which is referred to in society as "two friends."
“I relieved Kamchybek Tashiev of his position after discussing the situation with him. My decision was made for the peace and unity of the people and the state. Our friendship should not depend on positions or any interests,” Japarov noted.
He also explained the reasons for his decision in detail:
“In 2021, the people entrusted me with leading the country by electing me president. The constitution obliges me to ensure the integrity of the state and unity among the people and public servants. I strictly adhered to this principle, as the interests of the state and the people outweigh any positions and friendships.
Problems began in the Jogorku Kenesh. Some parliamentary groups started to divide the parliamentarians, asking questions about which side they would take: ‘Are you with us or with them?’ Deputies who were curious about who the ‘ours’ were were shown the general's epaulettes, while ‘the other side’ was associated with the president. This division gradually spread to the so-called aksakals on the streets.
They began collecting signatures for early elections, misleading people by claiming that this was agreed upon at a high level, and that the Jogorku Kenesh would soon announce elections.
If I had not taken decisive action, it could have provoked a split among ordinary citizens. I had evidence of intimidation of deputies and civil servants by a ‘general’ who threatened them: ‘If you do not join us, you will face the general.’
Therefore, I was forced to make such a decision.”
