The Kempir-Abad case is among the most high-profile political cases in Kyrgyzstan. It began in October 2022 after protests erupted against the government’s decision on the demarcation of the Kyrgyz-Uzbek border, which included the transfer of the territory surrounding the Kempir-Abad reservoir to Uzbekistan. Authorities justified the move as necessary to clarify borders and ensure regional security, while the opposition and civil society denounced it as a threat to Kyrgyzstan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Following the protests, authorities accused members of the “Committee to Protect Kempir-Abad” and other civic activists of “preparing mass riots” and “attempting to seize power by force,” detaining more than 20 people, including prominent politicians, public figures, activists, and journalists.
The case has been heavily criticized both within Kyrgyzstan and internationally. Human rights organizations described it as politically motivated persecution and condemned the government’s use of criminal prosecution to silence opposition and critical voices. They documented numerous violations of detainees’ rights, lack of judicial fairness, and prosecution for political beliefs.
The investigation and court proceedings stretched for over a year, with defendants held in pre-trial detention under harsh conditions. Some experienced severe health problems, required hospitalization, or declared hunger strikes. Detention conditions were widely reported as failing to meet international standards.
In June 2024, the Pervomaisky District Court of Bishkek acquitted several defendants, including Asiya Sasykbaeva. However, the case remains under review at the court of second instance. International organizations continue to characterize the proceedings as politically motivated persecution.