However, in its statement, the organization emphasized the need for the complete cessation of the criminal case against her. Civil Rights Defenders reminded that since the arrest of Tajibek kyzy and her colleagues, they have repeatedly called on the authorities of Kyrgyzstan to drop the unfounded charges, which they believe were brought in response to her legitimate journalistic activities.
The organization's statement reads: "Mahabat Tajibek kyzy must be fully acquitted and rehabilitated."
Additionally, it was noted that Judge Temirbek Mamatov, who reviewed the case, refused to terminate the proceedings and acquit the journalist, despite the Supreme Court's decision. She is also subject to a travel ban, and the case is awaiting a retrial.
Mahabat Tajibek kyzy, who led the anti-corruption projects Temirov Live and "Ait ait dese," was detained in January 2024 along with other editorial staff. In October 2024, she was sentenced to six years in prison on charges of inciting mass riots.
According to Civil Rights Defenders, the other defendants in this case have already been released — they were either pardoned, acquitted, or released on probation.
