Kyrgyz President Signs Law Targeting “False Information” as Court Shuts Down Independent Broadcaster

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov signed a new law on Friday that allows authorities to fine individuals and organizations for spreading false information online and in mass media, sparking more concern from civil society groups over the eroding press freedom in the Central Asian nation.

Under the legislation, police are authorized to collect information on alleged misinformation and submit cases to the courts. Individuals found guilty may face fines of approximately $228, while legal entities could be fined up to $743. Local non-governmental organizations criticized the measure, arguing it contradicts constitutional protections for freedom of expression.

The law’s enactment came a day after a Bishkek court ordered the closure of April TV, one of Kyrgyzstan’s few remaining independent broadcasters. The court ruled that the outlet’s editorial content “discredits authorities” and “incites unrest,” granting a request by the prosecutor’s office to dissolve the station’s legal entity and block its social media presence.

“In particular, the video reports, news channels, and broadcasts of April TV exhibit a systematic, biased, one-sided, destructive, and manipulative character,” the court wrote in its decision, claiming the content distorted facts and insulted public officials.

April TV had gained recognition for its news coverage of corruption cases, criminal investigations, and the trials of fellow journalists and civic activists—areas other media outlets had increasingly avoided under government pressure.

The prosecutor’s office filed the case in April, citing evidence gathered by the State Committee for National Security. Forensic reports from government agencies were used to support claims that April TV's reporting manipulated public opinion and contributed to “antisocial actions” and threats to national stability.

Authorities used similar tactics to shut down OCCRP member center Kloop in February 2024. The reporters were detained and interrogated. In recent weeks, two Kloop journalists—one current and one former—were detained on charges of inciting mass riots.

It remains unclear whether April TV will appeal the ruling. In a statement posted online on June 28, the outlet said it was “going on a vacation from which they might never return.”

“The court decision will be complied with — whatever it would be,” April TV said. “Most likely, we will have to find a new field in which to apply our efforts.”