Kyrgyzstan has passed new legislation barring individuals with criminal records from running for president or parliament, or from holding key positions in government.  President Sadyr Japarov signed the amendments into law, his press service announced.

The law applies broadly to anyone with a criminal conviction—whether active, expunged, or overturned—as well as individuals whose criminal cases were dropped on non-exonerating grounds.

However, exceptions are made for minor and medium-severity offenses, crimes committed through negligence, cases in which victims declined to pursue charges, or instances where reconciliation was achieved under the criminal code.

Under the new rules, individuals with a criminal record are prohibited from:

• Running for president or becoming a member of the Jogorku Kenesh (parliament);
• Holding governmental positions, including cabinet ministers or heads of executive agencies;
• Serving as members of the Central Election Commission;
• Being chairpersons, deputies, or board members of the National Bank;
• Acting as auditors in the national Accounts Chamber.

The reforms aim to bolster public trust in government institutions and ensure the integrity of high-ranking officials, including parliamentarians, cabinet members, and civil servants.

Additionally, the law imposes a five-year ban on religious leaders seeking public office after ceasing their religious duties.

The law will take effect ten days after its official publication, on July 28.

According to Fergana News, the bill was initiated by Kamchybek Tashiyev, head of the State Committee for National Security.  The bill’s explanatory note emphasizes the need to prevent individuals with past criminal conduct from holding high state office, arguing that even expunged or overturned convictions could cast doubt on a candidate’s reputation and ability to act solely in the public interest.

Notably, both Tashiyev and President Japarov have themselves had criminal convictions in the past.