Retrial begins for Kyrgyz journalist Makhabat Tajibek kyzy

The retrial of journalist Makhabat Tajibek kyzy commenced on August 25, 2026, at the Leninsky District Court in Bishkek. The session is open to the public, though photography and video recording have been prohibited.

Tajibek kyzy was initially sentenced to six years in prison by the Leninsky District Court on October 10, 2024. Subsequent appeals upheld the decision. However, in March of this year, the Supreme Court ordered a review of her case based on newly discovered circumstances, leading to her release from custody under a travel ban.

The criminal case against Tajibek kyzy stems from events in January 2024. During that period, police detained 11 journalists, activists, and media project employees associated with Temirov LIVE and 'Ait, ait dese,' accusing them of involvement in mass riots. Tajibek kyzy has denied the charges.

In October 2025, the Oktyabrsky District Court declared the informational materials of Temirov LIVE and 'Ait, ait dese' extremist and banned their activities within Kyrgyzstan. The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention had previously recognized Tajibek kyzy's detention as arbitrary in August 2025 and recommended that Kyrgyz authorities take measures to restore her rights. This UN conclusion was a key factor in her defense's appeal to the Supreme Court.

Tajibek kyzy and her defense team will now undergo the retrial process at the Leninsky District Court.