Sadir Japarov: "SIZO is not a resort, it is a place of punishment"

The President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadir Japarov, responded to complaints regarding pre-trial detention centers (SIZO). This was reported by Zamin.uz.

He openly stated that SIZO is not a place intended for rest or comfortable living. According to the President, pre-trial detention centers are places of punishment and order within the framework of the law, and it is incorrect to compare them with other places.

According to Sadir Japarov, although there are complaints about the conditions in SIZOs, it is impossible to imagine the detention center as a "resort." "If this place were a resort, we would not call it a pre-trial detention center," he said.

The President also announced that the use of heating stoves is prohibited in SIZOs, but the buildings are fully heated and supplied with electricity at the expense of the state budget. He reminded that all expenses are covered by taxpayers' money and considered excessive demands unjustified.

Japarov also recalled his personal experience. He has been in SIZO twice: the first time for 9 months, and the second time for 3.5 years.

"I did not complain, I was patient because it was a pre-trial detention center," said the President. He also emphasized that the penitentiary system in Kyrgyzstan has been significantly reformed in recent years.

Previously, people in prison suffered mentally and physically, but current conditions serve their rehabilitation. Today, prisoners are provided with three free meals a day, clothing, as well as uniform winter and summer clothes.

Prisoners have the opportunity to earn income through work, and some even send money to their families. At the end of his statement, the President firmly stressed that the order and conditions in prisons are the same for all inmates, and no one is given special privileges.