Gulnara Djurabaeva
Public figure, human rights defender, and election expert who has made a significant contribution to the development of civil society in Kyrgyzstan. For many years, she has worked to ensure transparency and legality in the conduct of elections and referenda. She previously served as a member of the Central Commission for Elections and Referenda of the Kyrgyz Republic. Djurabaeva has actively promoted the strengthening of democratic institutions and the participation of citizens in political processes.
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 Article 278 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic (“Organization of mass riots”) and Article 326 (“Attempt to seize power by force”).
Djurabaeva’s public opposition to the decision to transfer the Kempir-Abad reservoir to Uzbekistan is regarded as a key reason for her political persecution.
The Kempir-Abad case began in October 2022 following protests against the Kyrgyz-Uzbek border delimitation and demarcation agreement. The authorities justified transferring the territory of the Kempir-Abad reservoir to Uzbekistan as necessary for clarifying the border and strengthening regional security. However, the opposition and civil society considered this move a threat to Kyrgyzstan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
After the protests, members of the “Committee to Protect Kempir-Abad” and other activists were charged with “preparing mass riots” (Article 278 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic) and “attempting to seize power by force” (Article 326). More than 20 people, including prominent politicians, human rights defenders, activists, and journalists, were taken into custody. International human rights organizations have consistently described this case as politically motivated persecution, accusing the Kyrgyz authorities of using criminal prosecution to silence opposition voices. Reports also highlighted harsh detention conditions, restricted access to medical care, and multiple human rights violations.
The investigation and trial lasted nearly two years, during which defendants were held in pre-trial detention under difficult conditions. Some experienced deteriorating health, required hospitalization, or declared hunger strikes. In June 2024, the Pervomaisky District Court of Bishkek acquitted part of the defendants, including Gulnara Djurabaeva. However, the case remains under appeal in the second instance.
After her arrest, the health of Gulnara Djurabaeva deteriorated sharply, and her chronic illnesses worsened. For the 65-year-old public figure, the damp and cold conditions in pre-trial detention, combined with poor ventilation and unsanitary surroundings, caused serious harm. Stress and the physical hardship of confinement also negatively affected her cardiovascular system and immune health.
Despite repeated needs for medical assistance during detention, adequate care was not provided. Doctors failed to recognize the necessity of hospitalizing her, which provoked serious concern both among the public and international human rights organizations. The lack of timely and sufficient medical treatment continues to pose significant risks to her health.
