'Letter of 75' Sparks Political Overhaul in Kyrgyzstan

A collective appeal by 75 prominent figures in Kyrgyzstan, dubbed the 'Letter of 75,' triggered a seismic shift in the country's political landscape on February 9, 2026. The immediate aftermath saw President Sadyr Japarov dismiss Kamchybek Tashiev, the head of the State Committee for National Security (GKNB), and initiate sweeping personnel changes across the GKNB, parliament, and law enforcement agencies. Dozens were arrested, and several high-profile figures, including a former intelligence chief, a former parliamentary speaker, and a former prosecutor general, eventually faced trial.

Tashiev and his associates were accused of attempting a violent power grab and abusing their official positions. The article probes the reasons behind the state's forceful reaction to the 'Letter of 75,' questioning whether it was the sole catalyst for the events. It traces the origins of the political climate back to the aftermath of the October 2020 events, which saw the formal consolidation of state power under President Japarov. However, in the public perception, Tashiev remained a significant figure, often seen as a partner to Japarov, with the pair frequently referred to as 'eki dos', two politicians who rose to power together and were associated with a new political era.

While public appeals for help were directed at both leaders, and specific state decisions were linked to each, there were few overt signs of competition between them. This arrangement, despite criticism, was perceived as stable for a considerable period. By late 2025, however, political circles began to note a shift. Tashiev's public activity noticeably decreased, his pronouncements became less frequent, and the large-scale checks that had characterized his tenure largely ceased. Simultaneously, rumors circulated about increased behind-the-scenes maneuvering by Tashiev and his circle, with leaks suggesting his presidential ambitions. Although no official explanations were offered, these developments fueled growing unease among the elite.

Amidst these shifts, experts actively discussed the timeline for the next presidential elections. Kyrgyzstan was still operating under the previous constitution, which stipulated a six-year presidential term, when Sadyr Japarov was elected in January 2021. However, a new constitution, adopted a few months later, reduced the presidential term to five years. This constitutional change added another layer of complexity and uncertainty to the political maneuvering preceding the events of February 2026.