Kyrgyz Court Declares Kloop and Temirov Live Content “Extremist”: Journalists Cite Political Pressure

On October 28, 2025, a court in Bishkek ruled that the publications of independent media outlets Kloop, Temirov Live, and “Ait, ait dese” — as well as the activities of their founders — are “extremist.” The decision was made in a closed hearing without the participation of the media representatives. This marks the first time in Kyrgyzstan that journalists have been officially labeled as extremists.

Legal Basis and Reactions

The ruling followed a request from the Prosecutor’s Office of Bishkek’s Oktyabr District. According to a brief statement from the Supreme Court, not only the media content but also the “activities” of the founders — identified by initials T.B.M. and T.R.R., matching B. Temirov and R. Tukhvatshin — were deemed extremist.

Both journalists, currently residing abroad, said they were unaware of the trial. Temirov stated that the decision “will have negative consequences for the president, his reputation, and the country as a whole.” Tukhvatshin described the ruling as “a new wave of repression” that would “harm not only us, but all of Kyrgyzstan.”

Background of Prosecution

Temirov has lived outside Kyrgyzstan since 2022, after being stripped of his citizenship and deported. He continues to publish investigative reports on the Temirov Live YouTube channel.

In 2023, 11 journalists associated with Temirov Live were detained on charges of “inciting mass unrest.” Two received prison sentences, including Temirov’s wife, Mahabat Tajibek kyzy, who was sentenced to six years.

Similar charges were brought against Kloop staff and individuals not directly affiliated with the outlet. Among those sentenced were operator Alexander Alexandrov and former employee Joomart Duulatov.

Implications for Social Media Users

Following the court’s decision, even social media users who “like” or share content from these outlets could potentially face legal consequences. Temirov emphasized: “Journalism is not a crime.”

Decline in Press Freedom

According to Reporters Without Borders, Kyrgyzstan ranked 144th out of 180 countries in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index — a drop of 24 positions from the previous year. The report notes increasing pressure on independent media and the use of propaganda to portray journalists as “enemies of the people.”

This article was prepared and translated using artificial intelligence based on the original publication by Radio Azattyk.