Kyrgyzstan’s former security chief Kamchybek Tashiev charged with attempted seizure of power

His attorney, Ikromiddin Aitkulov, stated that the 57-year-old Tashiev was questioned twice on April 29, including a late-night session, after which charges were formally brought. While authorities have not publicly shared detailed evidence, a travel restriction has been imposed as a preventive measure. The investigation is being handled by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. In a Facebook post, Tashiev noted his innocence and urged supporters to remain peaceful and act within the law.

Political background

Tashiev has long been regarded as a pivotal political ally of President Sadyr Japarov, particularly during the October 2020 events that brought Japarov to office. Following those developments, Tashiev was appointed Chairman of the SCNS and served as Deputy Prime Minister.

Public scrutiny intensified after lawmaker Elvira Surabaldieva suggested in a recent interview that Tashiev’s dismissal in February was directly linked to this investigation. President Sadyr Japarov addressed the situation by stating that all individuals are equal before the law and that the judiciary would determine Tashiev’s role.

Context ahead of elections

These legal developments arrive as Kyrgyzstan navigates a presidential system established in 2021. While Japarov’s current term runs until January 2027, political activity has increased. In early February, a group of 75 public figures proposed early presidential elections. Shortly thereafter, authorities opened a case regarding the organization of mass unrest, leading to the detention of several signatories, including individuals described as Tashiev supporters. Tashiev was dismissed from his post the following day, a move Japarov said was necessary to prevent government division.

Family-related investigations

In addition to political charges, Tashiev faces scrutiny regarding his relatives. Tax authorities have accused members of his family of embezzling state funds through fuel sales by the state-owned Kyrgyzneftegaz.

In March, a relative, Baigazy Matisakov, was detained on suspicion of involvement in a fuel resale scheme that allegedly caused damages estimated at KGS 4.1 billion ($46 million). Furthermore, Tashiev’s brother, former lawmaker Shayyrbek Tashiev, was placed in custody on April 1 and is expected to remain there until at least May 16. All family members involved have denied any wrongdoing.