In their address, they emphasize the importance of reviewing the law enforcement practices concerning Article 278 "Organization of Mass Riots" of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic, as well as other norms, in light of recent structural changes in the security agencies.
Over the past few years, journalists and human rights defenders have repeatedly expressed their concern about the state of freedom of speech and expression in the country. Their statement also notes that many citizens have been prosecuted under Article 278 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic, and access to certain media resources has been restricted.
“According to open sources, a significant number of journalists and activists have faced criminal prosecution, some of whom have been forced to leave the country,” the authors of the statement add.
In light of current events and the public demand for legal clarity, they request the consideration of the following measures:
- conduct an additional review and, if there are grounds, reconsider the court decisions in cases of journalists and activists related to Article 278 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic;
- provide a legal assessment of the validity of previously issued sentences;
- apply legal rehabilitation mechanisms in cases of identified violations;
- halt criminal prosecution in cases where there are insufficient legal grounds;
- create conditions for the return of citizens who left the country due to criminal prosecution;
- conduct an official and legal assessment of the actions of officials in cases of possible procedural violations;
- consider the possibility of compensation for damages in cases of established violations of citizens' rights.
“We are confident that a transparent and fair consideration of these issues will help strengthen public trust in state institutions and contribute to the further development of Kyrgyzstan based on the rule of law and democratic principles,” the journalists conclude.
