Kyrgyz President Confirms Life Sentences for Bakiyevs Amid Recent Rumors

Maxim and Zhanysh Bakiyev, sentenced to life in prison, would be incarcerated if they return to Kyrgyzstan, according to President Sadyr Japarov. The SCNS denied rumors of Maxim’s arrival in Bishkek. Japarov also discussed ongoing negotiations regarding the return of former President Kurmanbek Bakiyev and the public’s demand for accountability regarding stolen funds.
Recent rumors have surfaced regarding Maxim Bakiyev, the son of former Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, allegedly arriving in Bishkek. These claims have ignited considerable public discourse. Meanwhile, the State Committee for National Security (SCNS) has formally denied the reports, though debates persist.
President Sadyr Japarov addressed the situation in an interview, asserting that both Maxim and Zhanysh Bakiyev face life sentences. He stated, “If they return, they will immediately go to prison. The court’s verdict is final and cannot be changed or reconsidered.” Consequently, he emphasized that their extradition would be impossible as the law necessitates their incarceration.
Japarov also discussed negotiations concerning former President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, revealing that offers have been made to return him provided he is not imprisoned upon arrival. He mentioned ongoing considerations regarding Sapar Isakov as well, stating, “If you don’t jail him, we can hand him over even today. We’re considering this.” He expressed interest in interrogating them about financial misconduct involving the Bishkek Heating and Power Plant and other issues.
The President mentioned the recovery of billions in stolen funds by law enforcement and noted the need to examine the former president’s dealings, including the gold concentrate stolen from Maxim’s office. He underscored the public demand for accountability, saying, “The people have been demanding for 15 years: ‘Why can’t you deliver them from Moscow or Minsk?'”
Japarov concluded by attributing the origin of the rumors to confusion surrounding the negotiations and expressed regret over the misinformation, stating, “How good it would be if he really came! We would put him in jail, and the billions would return to the budget.”
In conclusion, the allegations surrounding Maxim Bakiyev’s potential return to Kyrgyzstan have sparked significant public discourse, prompting a firm response from President Sadyr Japarov. The President has reiterated the finality of the court’s verdict against the Bakiyevs, asserting that their imprisonment is mandatory upon any return. Additionally, ongoing negotiations regarding the return of former President Kurmanbek Bakiyev imply a complicated political landscape in addressing past financial misconduct. The demands from citizens for accountability continue to shape these discussions.
Original Source: 24.kg