Kyrgyz president says people will decide on reinstating death penalty

ISTANBUL

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov said Saturday the question of restoring the death penalty for the rape and murder of women and children will be decided by a nationwide referendum.

Speaking to state news agency Kabar, Japarov said the initiative follows a surge in violent crimes against women and minors.

“The reasons are clear to everyone. We are seeing more cases of sexual assault against minors, not only in Kyrgyzstan but across the world,” he said.

He stressed the proposal is meant to protect women and children and rejected claims of political motives.

“We will not make such a decision unilaterally. We will certainly consult with the people,” Japarov said, adding the government would follow constitutional procedures.

According to the president, a draft law titled “On Amendments to Article 25 of the Constitution” will first go to public consultation and then to the Constitutional Court for review.

“This bill could be adopted by referendum. The issue will be decided only by a popular vote,” he said.

If the proposal passes, the next parliament would have to approve legislation to withdraw from international agreements banning the death penalty and amend national laws accordingly, Japarov added.

Public anger over capital punishment resurfaced after the brutal killing of 17-year-old Aisuluu Mukasheva in late September, which shocked the country and prompted calls for tougher penalties. Japarov said he took personal control of the investigation and pledged stronger action to protect women and children.