Photo: Osh City Hall. Janar Akayev begins his duties as mayor of Osh
Will the new mayor be able to rely on strong support?
Photo: Emilbek Kaptagaev
While social media users discuss Akayev's lack of management and economic experience, political experts have begun to pay attention to how well he can garner support from the authorities. Emilbek Kaptagaev notes in his post that the previous mayor, with strong backing, acted confidently and was able to implement many projects that seemed impossible. He questions whether Akayev will have the same strength and what support he will find in his new role.
Media expert Mirzhan Balabaev's opinion also aligns with Kaptagaev's reflections: “In 2025, when Jenish Toktorbaev was mayor, the city received 6.5 billion soms from the republican budget, plus 1.5 billion soms in assistance from entrepreneurs. These funds were obtained thanks to the influence of his classmate, former head of the GKNB Kamchybek Tashiev.” Balabaev emphasizes that Toktorbaev, relying on support, acted boldly, and questions whether Akayev will have the same backing and resources.
Ibraim Nurakun uulu, former head of the press service of the Jogorku Kenesh, commenting on Akayev's appointment, noted his long political journey and the record number of votes he received in the elections. He pointed out that Akayev has transformed from a defender of freedom of speech to a lobbyist for social initiatives, including infrastructure development.
According to Nurakun uulu, Akayev's appointment could be an important step in implementing the president's course of "governing with reason, not force." However, he warns that this appointment is not a privilege but a serious test.
Support from the center as the key to success
Janar Akayev is not a random figure, emphasizes political expert Tologon Keldibaev. He asserts that Akayev has established himself as a reliable politician, which reflects his understanding of responsibility.
“The work of a mayor requires management skills, but in Kyrgyzstan, success often depends not only on personal qualities but also on political will, team, and support from the center,” he adds.
Keldibaev highlights that Akayev's strong point is his ability to work with people and knowledge of internal issues; with the necessary authority and support, he can significantly influence the city's development and strengthen his political position.
He also harshly criticizes Toktorbaev's methods, considering them an unprecedented power grab, and points to the challenges the new mayor will face in restoring business trust.
According to data, last year, 6 billion soms were allocated for Osh, which allowed for the implementation of large projects. However, now only 350 million soms are allocated, which will create serious difficulties for Akayev in finding resources for the city's development under a limited budget.
Risks: provocations and sabotage
Osh is traditionally known for its "charismatic mayors," such as Jenishbek Toktorbaev and Melis Myrzakmatov, who set the standards for active PR and publicity.
Entrepreneur Rysgul Akimzhanova notes that Melis Myrzakmatov raised the bar for the mayor of Osh, and every new mayor must now work at the limit of their capabilities to surpass his achievements.
“Now Janar will need strength and endurance. On one hand, he will be compared to his predecessors, and on the other, the authorities will demand results. Moreover, provocateurs may try to manipulate the situation, and saboteurs may set him up. In such an environment, it will not be easy for him,” she concluded.
The future of Janar Akayev remains uncertain: will he be able to turn the southern capital into a springboard for his political career, or, as the experience of many of his predecessors shows, will this appointment mark the end of his active political life?
