President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov has proposed holding a nationwide referendum to decide on introducing the death penalty for the rape and murder of children and women. According to the Presidential press service, before being put to a public vote, the draft law will undergo public discussion and receive a conclusion from the Constitutional Court.
Japarov expressed deep concern over the rise in crimes against the sexual integrity of minors and women in Kyrgyzstan, noting that a similar trend is observed in many other countries.
He stated that the death penalty, even if it does not completely eliminate such crimes, could significantly reduce their number. Japarov also announced the development of additional safeguards, including mandatory video evidence and live broadcasts of court hearings. If approved by the people, the parliament will need to amend legislation and review Kyrgyzstan’s participation in international agreements prohibiting capital punishment.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
October 6, 2025