Presidential Statements on Bakiyev Imprisonment and Extradition Negotiations
President Sadyr Japarov stated that Maxim and Zhanysh Bakiyev will face imprisonment if they return to Kyrgyzstan, following a life sentence verdict. Ongoing negotiations concerning Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s extradition exist, but are contingent on conditions set by authorities. Japarov expressed the necessity of restoring funds to the state budget amidst false rumors about Bakiyev’s arrival.
Recently, reports have surfaced claiming that Maxim Bakiyev, son of former Kyrgyz president Kurmanbek Bakiyev, has landed in Bishkek via a private jet. These allegations have ignited extensive discussions within the community, even as the State Committee for National Security (SCNS) has officially refuted them.
President Sadyr Japarov addressed the situation in an interview with the Kabar news agency, stating, “Maxim and Zhanysh Bakiyevs were sentenced to life imprisonment. If they return, they will immediately go to prison. The court’s verdict is final and cannot be changed or reconsidered. That’s why their extradition was categorically denied.”
Japarov further elaborated on ongoing negotiations regarding Kurmanbek Bakiyev, indicating that offers have been made for his extradition contingent upon assurances he will not be imprisoned. He stated: “If you don’t imprison him, we are ready to hand him over.” Additionally, similar conditions are being discussed concerning Sapar Isakov. The President emphasized the need for these discussions to aid investigations into various financial irregularities involving significant sums recovered by law enforcement agencies.
Regarding the former president, President Japarov mentioned the potential for recovering funds linked to Kurmanbek Bakiyev, explaining ongoing efforts to ascertain the extent of assets held in safe deposit boxes and the recovery of stolen gold. He noted the public’s longstanding demand for accountability in these matters, asking, “Why can’t you deliver them from Moscow or Minsk?”
In concluding his remarks, Japarov suggested that those disseminating false information may be reacting to the negotiations, hinting that the potential return of Maxim Bakiyev would be met with significant legal consequences. He remarked, “How good it would be if he really came! We would put him in jail, and the billions would return to the budget.”
In summary, President Sadyr Japarov reaffirmed that Maxim and Zhanysh Bakiyev face life imprisonment should they return to Kyrgyzstan, highlighting that their extradition is denied based on a definitive court ruling. He discussed the complexities surrounding the negotiation for Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s return, while also emphasizing the critical ongoing investigations into embezzlement related to state finances.
Original Source: 24.kg
