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Central Asia Editor
Analysts warn that Sadyr Zhaparov’s apparent resounding victory in the January 10 presidential elections may herald a return towards a more authoritarian style of rule in Kyrgyzstan.
According to preliminary data from the Central Election Commission (CEC), Zhaparov – who had been serving a lengthy prison term before his dramatic release following the disputed October 2020 elections - won 82 per cent of the vote.
Sadyr has advocated returning to the presidential system of government of a decade ago as a means to fight corruption and develop the economy. He was among the initiators of a constitutional referendum, also held on January 10, which saw 84 per cent voting for the restoration of this system.
Analysts warn that Sadyr Zhaparov’s apparent resounding victory in the January 10 presidential elections may herald a return towards a more authoritarian style of rule in Kyrgyzstan. According to preliminary data from the Central Election Commission (CEC), Zhaparov – who had been serving a lengthy prison term before his dramatic release following the disputed October 2020
Zhaparov s seduction of the people
Polls have opened as Kyrgyzstan votes for a new president and on constitutional change. In autumn, protests brought down the government – now the freedoms they fought for are at stake. Emily Sherwin reports from Bishkek.
All around Kyrgyzstan s capital, Bishkek, one name dominates presidential campaign posters: Sadyr Zhaparov. The politician peers down from banners and his advertisements flash on screens. One video shows hands – clearly Zhaparov s – taking apart the mechanism of a watch completely, before putting it back together again, restarting time. Another shows a muddle of hands playing a fast game of chess, until one hand sweeps the board clear.
Kyrgyzstan: A change of president
Zhaparov is leading the latest independent polls, far ahead of 16 other candidates on the ballot. And that is despite refusing to take part in two rounds of televised presidential debates, which Zhaparov dismissed as gossip debates.
Candidate Zhaparov has presented himself as a man of the people in his campaign
Zhaparov was serving a prison sentence for kidnapping until protesters freed him during the demonstrations against the results of parliamentary elections in early October, which forced the resignation of the government. Zhaparov became acting president. He resigned in November to be eligible to run for office again on January 10.