BISHKEK – Kyrgyzstan’s President, Sadyr Japarov, has proposed reinstating the death penalty in response to a surge of public anger over violent crimes, especially those targeting women and children. The controversial suggestion was made in an interview published by his spokesman, Askat Alagozov, and comes in the wake of the brutal murder of a 17-year-old girl, which has ignited nationwide demands for stricter criminal punishments.
President Japarov revealed he has personally taken charge of the investigation into Mukasheva’s killing and has directed his administration to draft legislative changes to stiffen punishments. He highlighted a troubling rise in murders and sexual assaults targeting minors and women, noting that “standard prison terms no longer serve as a deterrent” for such heinous acts.
However, the president was clear that the death penalty, if reintroduced, would be reserved exclusively for cases involving extreme violence, such as murder and paedophilia, and would not apply to corruption-related offences.
Addressing concerns over potential miscarriages of justice, Japarov stressed that modern technology, including video recordings and live-streamed court proceedings, would ensure greater transparency in investigations and trials.
The president underscored that any decision to reinstate capital punishment would not be made unilaterally. “We will consult the people,” he said, suggesting a nationwide referendum could be held. Such a move would require constitutional amendments, changes to existing laws, and a review of Kyrgyzstan’s international obligations.
Japarov reaffirmed his commitment to protecting women and children from violence, describing it as a top priority. He insisted that the final decision on this contentious issue would rest with the Kyrgyz people.
Crime Statistics in Kyrgyzstan
Official figures underscore the growing concern over violent crime:
- Murders:
- 2021: 39 cases (2 children under 14, 1 teenager, 36 women)
- 2022: 43 cases (1 child, 1 teenager, 41 women)
- 2023: 25 cases (2 children, 2 teenagers, 21 women)
- 2024: 43 cases (5 children, 4 teenagers, 34 women)
- 2025 (Jan–Aug): 28 cases (3 children, 4 teenagers, 21 women)
- Rape Cases:
- 2021: 80 cases (21 children, 47 teenagers)
- 2022: 70 cases
- 2023: 175 cases (44 children, 116 teenagers, 15 women)
- 2024: 107 cases
- 2025 (Jan–Aug): 81 cases
The statistics reflect a persistent challenge, with a notable spike in rape cases in 2023, prompting further urgency in addressing violent crime in the country.
