Erlan Bekchoro uulu
Civic activist, journalist, and member of the “Turan” political party. Graduated in theater and journalism, he is engaged in socio-political activities.
House detention
Verdict was issued in the court of first instance (publicly known as the “Kempirabad case”) in 2024. Currently, the case is under review in the city court (second instance), and a verdict has not yet been delivered.
Charged under Articles Organization of mass riots – Article 278
Calls for the violent seizure of power – Article 327
In 2022–2023, political tensions in Kyrgyzstan escalated around the issue of the Kempir-Abad reservoir, leading to the detention of a number of activists and opposition politicians on charges of “preparing to organize mass riots” and “attempting to seize power by force.”
Erlan Bekchoro uulu was among the journalists targeted during this crackdown. He was arrested in October 2022 and a criminal case was opened against him. In 2024, his trial was held, and in June he was fully acquitted.
During his detention, Erlan and his family faced severe social and economic difficulties. Pressure in custody, combined with the lack of social support, left his family struggling in difficult living conditions.
This case sparked significant debate on freedom of expression and human rights in Kyrgyzstan, and Erlan Bekchoro uulu’s ordeal became a symbol of resistance to political persecution.
While in detention, Erlan Bekchoro uulu faced serious health difficulties. In December 2022, he went on a hunger strike, which had a severe negative impact on his physical condition. With inadequate and delayed medical services in detention, his health deteriorated further.
Bekchoro uulu required qualified medical care, continuous monitoring, and rehabilitation. However, access to healthcare in detention was severely limited, which disrupted his treatment and recovery process.
