"People Worked to Exhaustion". The Head of the Journalists' Union Evaluated the Film "President"

Aзамат Касыбеков expressed his thoughts on the documentary film "President," created by the renowned journalist Aibek Biibosunov, on his social media page. In his review, he touched upon themes of politics and human destiny.

Kasybekov noted that after watching all four episodes, he had a positive impression of the film. Despite some viewers hastily criticizing its artistic aspects and pacing, he preferred to wait until he had seen the entire film. "I liked the film," he stated.

According to him, the work was done professionally and qualitatively, with subtle nuances and elements of theatricality, but without overt propaganda. The film, in Kasybekov's opinion, became a kind of summary of five years of presidency, in which Deputy Prime Minister Kamchybek Kydyrshaevich recalls a conversation with the head of state immediately after his appointment. In this dialogue, ambitious goals were outlined: the return of Kumtor, the fight against corruption, victory over organized crime, and the resolution of border issues.

Although, as Kasybekov admitted, the duumvirate generally coped with these tasks, he expressed doubt about the remaining 30% of corruption that, according to the head of the State National Security Committee, still needs to be addressed. The early years of Japarov's rule reminded him of a Soviet five-year plan with the slogan "catch up and overtake." People worked to the limit of their capabilities, and this was reflected in the president's appearance — he noticeably aged, his hair turned gray, and wrinkles appeared on his face.

Kasybekov believes that even at that time, Japarov was thinking about the next five years, which can be understood from his unspoken words. He also noted that Kamchybek Tashiev openly declared his support for his friend in the upcoming elections. The president also shared his plans for the next 5-6 years, including large-scale infrastructure projects such as the China-Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan railway and the construction of hydroelectric power stations, which, in his opinion, should ensure GDP growth.

In Kasybekov's view, in the coming years, it is necessary to focus on the economy. It is important not only to increase the budget but also to live within means. "The fat years should be used wisely: by creating a stabilization fund and developing real sectors of the economy, such as exports and tourism," he added. He expressed doubts about the president's dream of bringing Kyrgyzstan into the top ten most developed countries but noted that sustainable development over 10-20 years could bring peace and business opportunities to citizens.

Kasybekov emphasized that although he does not always trust people, he trusts statistics, which indicate an increase in state revenues and an increase in the liquidity of state assets. He also reminded of recent tax and regulatory relaxations for entrepreneurs, which should support small and medium-sized businesses that account for over 40% of GDP.

The film "President" reveals the true essence of the head of state, the journalist noted. Behind the image of a simple "elpek bala" lies a person who has gone through a difficult path, possessing a hard pragmatism. This was particularly evident during the Kyrgyz-Tajik conflict when he calmly approached Emomali Rahmon first with a proposal for peace. In stressful conditions, he maintained his human qualities, which, according to Kasybekov, is a true value.

The journalist emphasizes that there is a need for the memoir genre in Kyrgyzstan. Politicians should leave memories of how decisions are made and what the reality of politics is. "The film 'President' is almost a memoir project, and it demonstrates that such a genre is indeed needed," Azamat Kasybekov concluded.