16:07, 04 декабря 2019, Bishkek - 24.kg news agency , Aigul KUVATOVA
Sister of an arrested blogger Aftandil Zhorobekov addressed the UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Chinara Temirova posted a video message on her Facebook page.
The author notes that two years ago, during a visit to Kyrgyzstan, the UN Secretary-General called the country «a founder of democracy in Central Asia.»
«I appeal to you, because our democratic values are now in jeopardy, in particular our basic right to freedom of expression. My brother Aftandil Zhorobekov is kept under arrest for criticizing the authorities on social media. Fictitious and baseless charges were brought against him. For three days, Aftandil has been under psychological pressure, he was made to cooperate and work for the State Committee for National Security in exchange for his freedom. But he refused. Aftandil insists on his release and the right to openly express his opinion,» Chinara Temirova stresses in her appeal.
She explains that Aftandil Zhorobekov previously worked at the UN Office in the Kyrgyz Republic. «We believe in the power of the organization, in the fact that it is always on guard to help those who need it. Now we need your help. I ask for your attention and assistance during this sad period for Kyrgyzstan, when our foundation — our democratic values and human rights — is shaking under our feet,» the appeal says.
During his visit to the Kyrgyz Republic in June 2017, Antonio Guterres stated that he «welcomed the intention of the republic’s authorities to adhere to the basic tenets of democracy — protection of human rights and respect for the law.»
The flash mob «I / We Aftandil Zhorobekov» also continues on the social media. Users urge everyone to sign a petition for release of the blogger.
Recall, Aftandil Zhorobekov was detained on November 27. He was charged with inciting ethnic hatred. Media experts stated about lawlessness, noting that his arrest was unlawful.