MP Slams Culture Ministry's Silence on Demolition of Cultural Sites

Member of Parliament Gulya Kozhokulova voiced strong criticism regarding the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy's apparent inaction amid the destruction of cultural heritage sites. "Why is the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy remaining silent when cultural objects are being destroyed in the country?" she questioned during a session of the Jogorku Kenesh, Kyrgyzstan's parliament.

Kozhokulova pressed officials on the condition of museums and the Artist House, highlighting that the creative community feels unheard by the ministry. She specifically cited the Mineral Museum, which was given a deadline of July 1 to vacate its premises, with its over 6,000 rare exhibits now needing to be packed. "How is it that historical monuments are being demolished? Is this normal? We don't hear you. How will we preserve our heritage?" she exclaimed, expressing outrage.

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Why is the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy remaining silent when cultural objects are being destroyed in the country?

Deputy Minister of Culture, Soyuzbek Nadyrbekov, offered a formal response, stating that the ministry would provide written information on each issue. The situation surrounding the Artist House has been escalating since spring 2026. The Bishkek mayor's office revoked the Union of Artists' land use rights, citing alleged misuse of the property for commercial purposes. The Union of Artists opposed this, warning of the potential loss of the 1950s building, which holds cultural and historical significance.

Legal proceedings are ongoing, with a court having issued a temporary injunction against any actions concerning the Artist House's land until the dispute is resolved. The municipality has since filed a lawsuit to overturn these protective measures, including the lifting of the object's arrest. The issue has also been discussed in the Jogorku Kenesh, and the Union of Artists has appealed to the president regarding the situation.

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How is it that historical monuments are being demolished? Is this normal? We don't hear you. How will we preserve our heritage?