What are the charges against Temirov LIVE and Ayt Ayt Dese journalists?
- Ahead of the verdict on 3 October, Makhabat Tazhibek-kyzy and other journalists face up to six years in prison on politically motivated charges.
- Prosecutors have pushed for harsh sentences despite lack of evidence.
- Journalists have been detained for publishing investigations on alleged government corruption.
Why are the charges considered politically motivated?
Denis Krivosheev, from Amnesty International, condemns the charges as an attempt to stifle free expression and punish journalists for their work.
What are the concerns regarding freedom of expression in Kyrgyzstan?
- Kyrgyzstani President dismissed the journalists as “not real” and accused them of spreading false information.
- Stigmatizing narratives against independent media have emerged from the highest office.
- Kyrgyzstan introduced repressive laws targeting press freedom.
Summary
The charges against Temirov LIVE and Ayt Ayt Dese journalists in Kyrgyzstan are seen as politically motivated attempts to suppress free expression and punish investigative journalism. Amnesty International urges authorities to drop the baseless charges and release all detainees, highlighting the importance of protecting press freedom.
Source: www.amnesty.org