Bishkek, September 03, 2024, The Europe Today: President Sadyr Japarov has commented on the recent closure of Kloop Media, a prominent Kyrgyz news outlet, during an interview with the Kabar news agency. The closure, upheld by the Supreme Court following decisions by two lower courts, has sparked widespread debate about the state of press freedom and investigative journalism in Kyrgyzstan.
President Japarov stated that he first learned of Kloop Media’s closure through media reports, and he emphasized that this decision would not impede freedom of speech in the country. “For 30 years, we have confused anarchy with democracy, rumors with freedom of speech. Now society is getting rid of this. We have had and will have freedom of speech. We will support anyone who speaks the truth. But anarchy, spreading rumors, and false information is not freedom of speech,” the President remarked.
When asked whether the closure of Kloop Media was related to their investigative reporting, President Japarov suggested that the outlet’s shutdown might be due to its “unilateral approach in investigations and discreditation attempts.” He defended the court’s decision, stating, “Courts do not make decisions for nothing. Haven’t you noticed the frequent spread of biased, slanderous, and false materials by them?”
President Japarov reassured that the government remains open to supporting any impartial investigation, regardless of the party conducting it, but stressed the importance of balanced coverage. “Coverage of all sides is necessary,” he added.
The President also addressed the case of Bolot Temirov, a journalist known for his investigative work, saying, “Bolot Temirov is like that dog that barks, but the caravan moves on. We do not pay attention to his investigations.”
These comments come amidst growing concerns over the state of media freedom in Kyrgyzstan, as the closure of Kloop Media raises questions about the future of independent journalism in the country. While President Japarov asserts that freedom of expression remains intact, the situation has prompted further scrutiny of the government’s stance on press freedom and its commitment to upholding democratic principles.
