A group of deputies from Kyrgyzstan’s parliament, the Jogorku Kenesh, have announced that they are close to finalizing a decision on the parliament’s self-dissolution. According to the Constitution, if dissolution proceeds, early elections must be held within two months, meaning the vote could take place as early as November.
Deputy Dastan Bekeshev stated that although he did not sign the dissolution initiative himself, he estimates the likelihood at 99.7 percent. Sixty signatures, two-thirds of all members of parliament, are required for self-dissolution, and 30 signatures have already been collected. Despite the uncertainty, political headquarters are actively preparing: sociologists are conducting phone surveys, consultants are drafting programs and PR strategies, and Bekeshev has called on his supporters to volunteer as campaigners or election observers.
“This time, the election campaign will be shortened: 20 days of campaigning, and candidate registration will also be expedited. The parliamentary committee is already planning to discuss the procedure for donations to candidates’ election funds,” Bekeshev said.
He has also introduced a new bill addressing election finance. Under current rules, donations can only be made through accounts in a limited number of banks, which he argues creates obstacles for candidates. His proposal would expand banking options and allow campaign funds to be supplemented through the sale of political merchandise.
Some lawmakers suggest that the push for early elections reflects the interests of certain groups that want to bring in loyal candidates aligned with the speaker and the authorities. Bekeshev indirectly acknowledged this view, noting that restrictions on candidates’ access to additional resources, combined with the doubling of the maximum campaign fund from 10 to 20 million KGS, could turn parliament into what he called a “parliament for the rich,” limiting access for ordinary citizens.
The Central Election Commission has confirmed it is prepared to organize the vote and has urged deputies to inform citizens about new election rules. Under the revised system, three deputies will be elected from each constituency, but voters will only be able to cast a ballot for one candidate.
