Sadyr Japarov

Japarov was appointed Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan following the October 2020 protests that ousted President Sooronbay Jeenbekov. His appointment came amid political chaos. He was previously imprisoned for hostage-taking but was released by supporters during the unrest.

Japarov signed a new constitution that significantly expanded presidential powers, including control over the judiciary and security services. The constitution was approved in a referendum with 81% support. Opponents argued it undermined democratic checks and balances.

Japarov won the presidential election with 79% of the vote, consolidating his power. The election was held after a constitutional referendum that shifted Kyrgyzstan from a parliamentary to a presidential system. Critics called the election flawed and the referendum a power grab.

Japarov's government nationalized the Kumtor gold mine, Kyrgyzstan's largest foreign investment project, from Canadian company Centerra Gold. The move was popular domestically but led to legal disputes and investor concerns. The government cited environmental and tax violations.

Japarov's government arrested several opposition figures, including former President Almazbek Atambayev, on corruption charges. Critics accused him of using the judiciary to silence rivals. The crackdown raised concerns about democratic backsliding in Kyrgyzstan.