Bishkek Mayor Aibek Junushaliyev has called on foreign investors to strictly comply with Kyrgyz legislation and avoid involvement in corrupt practices. His statement, published on the official city hall website, stresses the importance of lawful and transparent cooperation between government agencies and the business sector.

“We are confident that only transparent and lawful interaction between government agencies and the business community can become the basis for the sustainable development of the capital and attract investment,” Junushaliyev stated.

He affirmed that the mayor’s office remains open to dialogue, ready to support responsible investors, and committed to ensuring full transparency in transactions. However, he warned that any attempts to bypass the law through corrupt means would be met with firm opposition.

Background: Deputy Mayor Arrested

The mayor’s remarks follow the recent arrest of Bishkek Deputy Mayor Taalaibek Baigaziev by the State Committee for National Security. Baigaziev stands accused of soliciting a $35,000 bribe from a foreign company in exchange for lobbying efforts related to the capital’s thermal power plant reconstruction project. After partially failing to deliver on his promises, he was reportedly caught red-handed while returning a portion of the money. A criminal case has been opened against him.

Ongoing Projects and Investment Environment

In his statement, Junushaliyev highlighted major investment projects currently underway in Bishkek with foreign participation. These include the construction of a multifunctional residential and business complex on the site of the former hippodrome, a waste-to-energy incineration plant, and the modernization of the city’s sewage treatment facilities.

He stressed that all these initiatives are being carried out strictly within the bounds of the law and should serve as a model for future investment.

“The city administration will continue to adhere to a policy of openness, legality, and a firm stance against corruption,” he said. “If, during the implementation of a project, you encounter any unlawful actions by officials, such as extortion, coercion, or other forms of corruption, please report them immediately to the city hall’s anti-corruption department or law enforcement authorities.”

According to the National Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan, foreign investment in Bishkek reached $525 million in 2024, a 50% increase compared to the previous year.

Kyrgyzstan’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Absattyr Syrgabaev, was seen wearing camouflage during a recent site inspection, days after facing public criticism from Kamchybek Tashiev, head of the State Committee for National Security (GKNB) and deputy chairman of the Cabinet. The incident took place during a working visit to the Jalal-Abad region.

Tashiev’s reprimand was sparked by the poor condition of a local maternity hospital. He criticized hospital staff for neglecting basic maintenance, including watering trees and keeping the grounds tidy.

“Is it really impossible to water them? Why do I have to come here and talk about this?” Tashiev said during the visit.

Turning his attention to Syrgabaev, Tashiev accused the minister of ignoring broader infrastructure responsibilities beyond road construction. He urged Syrgabaev to change his appearance to reflect a more hands-on approach.

“Until November, don’t wear a suit. Wear camouflage like me and work until nightfall. In winter, you can go back to suits. Otherwise, you’ll keep showing up in Naryn and Ton in business attire. You have to work! Do you hear me?” Tashiev said at a government meeting in Jalal-Abad.

Demands for Constant Work

Tashiev also directed harsh criticism at regional governors (akims) and other civil servants, insisting they work “around the clock without days off.” He emphasized that every official must act as a “strong manager.”

“Stop working one day and resting two!” he demanded.

Shortly after these remarks, Syrgabaev appeared in camouflage during a road reconstruction inspection in the Suusamyr Valley, aligning with Tashiev’s directive. The appearance drew attention from local media outlets.

Context of Political Pressure

This is not the first time Syrgabaev has come under scrutiny. In May 2025, Tashiev gave him a one-month deadline to complete the Balykchy to Cholpon-Ata highway. While the road was completed on time, unfinished sidewalks led to a “final warning” for the minister. A year earlier, he had been criticized for delays in constructing a bridge over the Ala-Archa River in Bishkek.

The backdrop of heightened scrutiny comes amid ongoing corruption investigations. In recent months, authorities have arrested the mayors of Tokmok and Kara-Balta, the deputy mayor of Bishkek, and several contractors.

In this climate, Tashiev’s public remarks are increasingly viewed as informal mandates, reflecting his growing influence within Kyrgyzstan’s state apparatus.