Former Kyrgyz Parliament Speaker Keldibekov rules out presidential run

Former Kyrgyz Parliament Speaker Akhmatbek Keldibekov has publicly stated he has no intention of running in the presidential elections scheduled for early 2027. Keldibekov, who has been involved in private business since 2020, addressed recent speculation about his potential candidacy, characterizing such reports as efforts to damage his image.

In a social media post accompanied by a photo with President Sadyr Japarov, Keldibekov declared, "I have no intention of running for president." He added that at this stage of life, he and his former political colleagues should compete for respect rather than power. His statement underscored his commitment to supporting Japarov and his close associates, prioritizing the unity and integrity of Kyrgyzstan above all else.

“

I have no intention of running for president. Today we are already at an age where, as friends, we should compete not for power, but for respect. Therefore, supporting Sadyr Japarov and calling on my close like-minded people to support him is my duty. For me, the unity of the people and the integrity of the country are more important than anything.

Keldibekov's announcement comes amid circulating rumors in social networks suggesting that certain political factions might nominate him as a presidential candidate. He was a notable figure alongside Japarov and Kamchybek Tashiev in the 2010 parliamentary elections under the "Ata Jurt" party.

Sources indicate that Keldibekov largely remained outside Kyrgyzstan's active political life during the period when Kamchybek Tashiev headed the State Committee for National Security (GKNB). His current declaration signals a step back from presidential aspirations, focusing instead on his business endeavors and support for the current administration.

“

friends, with whom I was once in politics together, came to power