Rally against corruption. Bishkek residents demand decisive actions

A rally against corruption was held in Bishkek today. Residents of the city gathered at the monument to the heroes of the April revolution and walked to the White House. In total, about 500 people participated in the protest.

Initiators of the rally noted that they were prompted by the authorities' inaction against corruption.

The impetus for the organization of the protest was the journalistic investigation by Kloop, Azattyk and OCCRP on corruption schemes at the Customs. Citizens of Kyrgyzstan are outraged that the authorities allegedly do not have enough facts to stop the activities of corrupt officials and hold them accountable.

Famous artists, filmmakers, representatives of small business, creative intelligentsia, civic activists, and many young people were among the participants of the rally.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs did not attract additional police forces. There were not more than 20 law enforcement officers on Ala-Too square.

The Deputy Head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Almaz Orozaliev was at the rally. According to him, the organizers of the protest were warned of responsibility in case public order is violated. However, the police did not intend to take any action to forcefully end the rally.