The sensational trial in Kyrgyzstan has come to an end

One of the most controversial and politically charged trials in Kyrgyzstan in recent years has come to an end. The republican court has sentenced the country's former president, Almazbek Atambayev, to 11.5 years in prison in absentia.

According to the decision, Atambayev was found guilty in three criminal cases at once. He was accused of illegal enrichment, land appropriation, and organizing mass riots in connection with the events that took place in the village of Koy-Tash in 2019. The verdict was issued in absentia, that is, he did not personally participate in the trial.

Billions in compensation and confiscated property

According to the verdict of Judge Aziret Mederov, Atambayev and former Deputy Prime Minister Askarbek Shodiev were ordered to pay compensation to the state in the amount of 5.4 billion soms (approximately $60 million). In addition, the personal property of both officials was confiscated in favor of the state.

Askarbek Shodiev was sentenced to 15.5 years in prison, and after the end of his sentence, he was deprived of the right to work in the civil service for another 3 years.

Other defendants were also sentenced to various sentences

• Former presidential press secretary Farid Niyazov and political activist Ravshan Jeenbekov were sentenced to 7 years and 8 months in prison.
• Atambayev's personal bodyguard Kanat Sagimbayev was sentenced to 7.5 years, but was given a 5-year conditional probation.

During the trial, several defendants were released due to the expiration of their sentences. In addition, some were given lighter forms of punishment with probation.

Events of 2019: the beginning of the political conflict

The case began against the backdrop of the political crisis that broke out in Kyrgyzstan in the summer of 2019. The special operation organized to seize Atambayev's residence in the village of Koy-Tash met with fierce resistance. This event became the focus of attention not only of local but also of international media.

Those events initiated serious changes in the political system of Kyrgyzstan in recent years. The trial put an end to the long-standing disputes surrounding these events.

Conclusion: the court verdict is the fate of the political process

This court verdict once again showed the existence of responsibility and legal punishment in state institutions in Kyrgyzstan. This process can be a lesson not only for the former president, but also for high-ranking officials, political activists and those around them.

At the same time, this case is expected to open a new stage in the political scene of Kyrgyzstan, strengthening the demands for clarity and transparency in state structures.