Photo of the Cabinet of Ministers. The new mayor of Osh, Janar Akayev, former mayor Jenishbek Toktorbaev, and head of the Cabinet Alydbek Kasymaliev
Against this backdrop, personnel changes occurred in the southern capital. Deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh Janar Akayev was appointed the new mayor of Osh, replacing Jenishbek Toktorbaev, who was relieved of his duties. Akayev, who has experience in journalism and politics, previously served as the press secretary to the president and is a graduate of Osh State University. His appointment is expected amid further development of the city's infrastructure and social sphere.
- Political observers link Toktorbaev's resignation to recent changes in the leadership of law enforcement agencies, particularly the resignation of the head of the State National Security Committee, Kamchybek Tashiev, who was a close friend of the former mayor.
Personnel reshuffles are also ongoing in the Cabinet of Ministers. Recently, the Parliament of Kyrgyzstan unanimously approved the appointments of three new ministers without discussion: Urmatbek Shamyrcanov took over the Ministry of Emergency Situations, Talantbek Soltobaev became the Minister of Transport and Communications, and Akyl Toktobaev was appointed head of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision.
The appointment procedure was swift, as deputies decided not to ask candidates questions and immediately proceed to voting following the decrees from President Sadyr Japarov about the dismissal of the previous heads of these agencies.
Rotations continue in the State National Security Committee as well. The deputy chairman of the committee has been replaced: Akylbek Namazov, who previously worked in the Customs Service, was appointed instead of Timur Shabdanbekov. Additionally, Salmoorbек Jumabekov was removed from his position as head of the GKNB department for the Osh region, and his place was taken by Joomart Toktogulov.
Simultaneously, the parliament and president approved Jumgalbek Shabdanbekov as the chairman of the GKNB, continuing a series of personnel reforms in the agency following Kamchybek Tashiev's departure.
Photo of the Jogorku Kenesh. Bolot Ibragimov
Recently, personnel changes also affected the Jogorku Kenesh. Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu, who left the speaker's position last week, announced his early resignation from deputy powers, denying rumors about his involvement in political intrigues and the "addressing of 75." He explained his decision by health problems.
At the same time, Karim Khandzheza left the vice-speaker position due to personal circumstances. His place was taken by deputy Bolot Ibragimov, nominated by the "Mekenchil" group. He was elected as a deputy of the Bishkek City Council and entered parliament through single-mandate district No. 22. Before the personnel reshuffles in the Jogorku Kenesh, there was criticism directed at some leaders holding positions undeservedly.
Kyrgyzstan is introducing a system of "temporary rights" for new drivers, valid for one year. Graduates of driving schools will now undergo a probationary period: if they commit three or more traffic violations within a year, their license will be revoked, and they will have to retrain for another six months. Permanent rights will only be issued to those who confirm their discipline on the roads during the first year of driving.
At the Road Council held by the city mayor's office, innovations in the public transport sector of Bishkek were discussed.
For other significant events and news covered by journalists 24.kg, read the review "Week-24".
New mayor of Osh Janar Akayev: challenging tasks during a period of change
The appointment of Janar Akayev as the mayor of Osh came as a surprise to those following the political situation in Kyrgyzstan. He lacks experience in managing the real sector, while municipal management requires special skills and flexibility. Nevertheless, he is credited with the ability to solve complex tasks.
Start of registration for the ORT-2026. New rules for applicants
Registration for the Nationwide Testing (ORT) has begun in Kyrgyzstan. In 2026, the procedure underwent changes. What innovations await applicants, and what documents will they need for registration?
Summarizing the work of Osh mayor Jenishbek Toktorbaev
Jenishbek Toktorbaev was relieved of his duties as mayor of Osh, a position he held since January 23, 2025. During this time, he became one of the most prominent and controversial figures in local governance. Before his appointment as mayor, he was a deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh of the VII convocation from the Ata-Jurt Kyrgyzstan party, which provided him with strong regional support.
Combating air pollution in Bishkek: comprehensive measures
Air pollution in Bishkek remains one of the main environmental problems. However, the city mayor's office is implementing a number of measures aimed at improving the ecological situation and reducing the level of pollutants in the atmosphere. This was reported by the chief specialist in ecology and urban environment improvement, Nursultan Tashybek uulu.
Inflation processes: rising tariffs and food prices
In Kyrgyzstan, in January 2026, compared to December 2025, consumer prices increased by 0.8 percent. Year-on-year, the increase was 9.5 percent, reported the National Statistical Committee. Since the beginning of 2026, the following have already become more expensive:
Economic growth in Kyrgyzstan: what influences GDP
The gross domestic product of Kyrgyzstan at the end of January 2025 amounted to 125 billion 718.1 million soms, which is 9 percent more than in January 2025. For the past year, growth was 11.1 percent. The main factors contributing to GDP growth were commodity production, the service sector, and net taxes on products.
Recommendations for observing fasting during Ramadan
The holy month of Ramadan began on February 19. During these days, Muslims should abstain not only from food but also guard their feelings from temptations, which includes refraining from gossip and insults. All efforts should be directed towards good deeds. 24.kg in collaboration with the DUMK has prepared advice on how to better spend this holy month.
The impact of fasting on health: what you need to know
A month-long fast is an important test of faith for Muslims. Islam encourages believers not only to abstain from food but also to care for their feelings, avoiding gossip and idle talk. Pregnant and nursing women, travelers, and the sick are exempt from fasting. Doctors told 24.kg about potential health risks during fasting and how to avoid them.
New faces in the government: Minister of Science Gulzat Isamatova
Minister of Science, Higher Education, and Innovation Gulzat Isamatova gave an interview to 24.kg, in which she discussed the priorities of reforms and plans for the future.
Changes in the construction materials market in Kyrgyzstan
Leading journalist 24.kg investigated current prices for construction materials in Kyrgyzstan and found out which factors influence their cost. It turned out that prices are affected by seasonality, import supplies, and the development of local production, which is shaping a new picture in the construction market.
Work of the municipal enterprise "Tazalyk" and new technologies
The municipal enterprise "Tazalyk" is actively engaged not only in garbage collection but also in the sanitary cleaning of the city, cleaning ditches, as well as capturing and culling animals upon request. In an exclusive interview with 24.kg, the director of MP "Tazalyk," Joldosh Chushtukov, spoke about the directions of work and tasks of the enterprise.
Cascade of reforms to reduce road accidents in Kyrgyzstan
In Kyrgyzstan, about 800 deaths in traffic accidents are recorded annually, placing the country among the top in this indicator in the region. Under the leadership of the president, reforms in this area have begun, including the abolition of private driving schools, extending driver training periods, and reinstating mandatory technical inspections. We spoke with Doctor of Sciences, President of the Eurasian Vehicle Inspection Network (EVIN) David Meskhishvili about how the number of traffic accidents can be reduced to zero and what experience from Georgia can be useful in this context.
Tourism as a business: how the Kyrgyz yurt can become a brand
Finland has turned the myth of Lapland into a powerful tourist industry, where every experience has its price. The Northern Lights, Santa Claus, reindeer, and huskies have become not just symbols but part of a well-thought-out business model. In an interview with 24.kg, the head of the company Ethno Yurts, Kamchybek Zamirbekov, discussed how Kyrgyzstan can profit from its culture.
Discussion on the creation of an investigative committee in Kyrgyzstan
Amid changes in law enforcement structures and the resignation of the GKNB leadership, the idea of creating an investigative committee (IC) that will be the sole investigative body is actively discussed in Kyrgyzstan. This topic is not new, but it has gained particular relevance in light of political changes.
Increased interest of the USA in Central Asia: new challenges and opportunities
Washington is becoming active in Central Asia, focusing on critically important minerals, investments, and new formats of cooperation. Some experts see this as an opportunity, while others warn of the risk of increased dependency and involvement in geopolitical conflicts. 24.kg asked experts about the significance of US interest in the region.
Stanislav Belkovsky on new realities in international politics
According to writer Stanislav Belkovsky, the rules and hierarchies have been lost in the modern world, and survival depends on strength. Why the USA changed its attitude towards Russia and how Central Asia can become an important resource in the new world order — in an interview with 24.kg.
Abdygany Mamanov on war: personal experience and lessons
Abdygany Mamanov, who served in Afghanistan, shares his service experience and life lessons learned on the front lines. On the eve of the 37th anniversary of the withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan, he told 24.kg about his impressions, the shortage of goods, and the reality of war.
Family values in Kyrgyzstan: new attention to the prevention of social risks
Recently, a memorandum was signed in Bishkek between the Ministry of Labor, Social Security, and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic and the public fund "League of Child Rights Defenders," marking an important step towards strengthening the support system for families and children. Deputy Minister of Labor, Social Security, and Migration Ainura Orozbaeva told 24.kg how these decisions will work in practice.
The beauty of Issyk-Kul: photos and videos from 24.kg readers
In the "Moments of Life" section, readers of 24.kg share their photos and videos about traveling in Kyrgyzstan. In this issue, we will stroll through autumn Bishkek, visit Issyk-Kul and the Naryn region, and then head to the south of the republic.
Television premieres: what to watch at the end of February
From February 23 to March 1, viewers can expect several premieres and long-awaited continuations. Well-known doctors, Formula 1 racers, and monster hunters will return to the screen, while the criminal world of Montana will gain a new law defender.
