Kyrgyzstan's Former President Atambayev Receives 11.5-Year Prison Sentence

Kyrgyzstan's Former President Atambayev Sentenced to 11.5 Years in Absentia Former Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev has been sentenced to 11.5 years in prison for corruption and involvement in civil unrest. The Bishkek court found him guilty on charges of land grabbing and inciting violence. Atambayev, who has been living abroad for the past two years, was tried in absentia. His defense has expressed strong disagreement with the verdict. The court's decision details several instances of Atambayev's alleged abuse of power, including the illegal acquisition of land and his role in the 2010 political turmoil. The prosecution presented evidence linking Atambayev to these events, including witness testimonies and financial records. Atambayev's lawyer, however, argued that the charges were politically motivated and that the evidence was insufficient to warrant such a harsh sentence. "The court's decision is a travesty of justice," stated Atambayev's lawyer in a statement released after the verdict. "The evidence presented was weak and circumstantial, and our client maintains his innocence." The sentencing also implicated Atambayev's former aide, Farid Niyazov, who received a 7-year and 8-month sentence for his role in the alleged crimes. The court found Niyazov guilty of assisting Atambayev in his illegal activities. While Atambayev remains abroad, the Kyrgyz government has vowed to pursue his extradition to ensure he serves his sentence. The case highlights ongoing challenges related to corruption and political stability in Kyrgyzstan.