End of an Era
One of the most notable events was the dismissal of Kamchybek Tashiev from his position as head of the State National Security Committee (GKNB) and Deputy Prime Minister.
In an interview with "Kabar," Sadyr Japarov confirmed that Tashiev would not return to public service and needs to recover his health. The President also noted that their relationship remains friendly; however, the political situation has changed.
According to the President, Tashiev's resignation was prompted by several factors, including the need to prevent a split in society and maintain stability, as well as attempts to use the GKNB structure outside the legal framework. Additionally, there was a demand for renewal within the security forces.
Japarov emphasized that personnel policy is not divided into "Japarov's team" and "Tashiev's team," and the main criterion for selection remains professionalism and service to the interests of the state.
Personnel Changes in the Security Forces and Government
Tashiev's resignation acted as a catalyst for a large-scale restructuring of the management structure. His close associates were removed or reassigned to other positions. Among the most significant changes are the resignation of the Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh, Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu, and the head of the Bishkek GKNB department, Eldar Jakypbekov, as well as the replacement of all deputies of the GKNB head with new ones.
These changes indicate a systemic reboot of the security bloc, which is transitioning from personal power to a more institutional model operating within the law under the control of the President as a guarantor of stability.
Fighting Corruption Without Excessive PR
Tashiev's resignation marked a new stage in Kyrgyzstan's anti-corruption policy. His name was associated with a tough fight against corruption and organized crime, manifested through high-profile arrests and public statements.
A fear of corruption has developed in society, making officials more cautious and businesses more prudent. However, despite the dynamism, a sustainable systemic model of anti-corruption policy has not been established, which depended on the personal qualities of a specific leader. In his latest interview, Japarov noted that the fight against corruption would continue, but without demonstrative "mask shows" and excessive PR.
In fact, this refers to a transition to a calmer and procedural model, with clear rules and the inevitability of punishment. This is a positive step, as anti-corruption policy should become a function of the entire state, rather than depend on a single security official.
Nevertheless, it is important to find a balance during the transitional phase.
Society has become accustomed to visible struggles.
For many, publicity served as proof of the state's active actions. Therefore, a reasonable combination of publicity and the establishment of an anti-corruption system will yield the most effective result, preserving the reputation of the authorities as fighters against corruption and crime.
Concerns About a Split and the President's Reaction
Tashiev's resignation has once again raised discussions about a possible imbalance between the north and south of the country. However, upon analyzing the current political situation and the President's statements, it becomes clear that there is no reason for panic.
In the interview, Japarov emphasized that he would not allow a split along regional lines and that state policy should not be built on the confrontation between the north and south. This emphasis is not accidental.
The President effectively confirmed that the era of informal regional quotas should remain in the past.
It should be noted that Sadyr Japarov's team has always included strong representatives from the southern regions, and this remains the case now. Influential figures from the southern regions continue to be part of the President's circle, both in the government and in parliament.
Nevertheless, the system is gradually transitioning from a geographical to a competency-based principle. For Kyrgyzstan, where the balance between the north and south has often been the cause of political crises, this is an important moment. If personnel policy is based on professionalism rather than informal regional agreements, then the resignation of one influential politician will not lead to systemic imbalance. If this formula is established, it will be a step towards a more mature political model for the country.
