Kyrgyz president says he will run for a second term

Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov confirmed on Thursday that he plans to run for a second term in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for January 27, 2027. "I intend to run for another term and continue my work," Japarov stated in an interview, adding that "anyone else who wants to take part in the election is free to run. We will not restrict anyone."

Japarov's spokesman had previously indicated the president's intention to seek re-election in 2024, but this marks the first public confirmation from Japarov himself. He initially rose to power amidst political turmoil and street protests in October 2020, subsequently winning the presidential election in January 2021.

Since taking office, Japarov has consolidated his authority in the Central Asian nation. Kyrgyzstan has a history of political instability, having seen presidents ousted by popular protests in 2005, 2010, and 2020. This pattern contrasts with many other nations in the region, which are often characterized by long-serving authoritarian leaders.

Japarov's decision to seek another term comes as he has worked to solidify his position. The upcoming election will be a key moment for the country's political trajectory, following a period of significant upheaval that led to his initial ascent to power.

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I intend to run for another term and continue my work. Anyone else who wants to take part in the election is free to run. We will not restrict anyone.