PEN International is deeply concerned about the news that Kyrgyzstan-based Uzbek journalist Ulugbek Abdusalamov has suffered a serious stroke while detained at a hospital. PEN is also concerned by reports that Abdusalamov’s current hospital in Jalal-Abad is inadequately equipped to treat him effectively, and calls for his immediate transfer to a better-equipped hospital in the capital, Bishkek, so that the he can receive proper medical care.

Background Information

According to PEN’s information, Ulugbek Abdusalomov, chief editor of the independent Uzbek newspaper Diydor, has been in poor health for some time, and suffers from stomach ailments, high blood pressure, and a heart condition. On September 22, 2010, he suffered a stroke which, according to reports, left him paralyzed on one side of his body and unable to speak.

Abdusalamov has been detained on dubious charges related to his writings since June 14, 2010. International human rights groups report that he is being held in retaliation for his reporting on human rights abuses in southern Kyrgyzstan. His trial was scheduled to start on September 22 but was postponed following his stroke. It is expected to continue once his health improves. He remains in detained at the hospital.

Write A Letter

  • Calling for the immediate transfer of Ulugbek Abdusalamov to a hospital in Bishkek, where he can receive adequate medical attention;
  • Calling for Abdusalamov to be freed pending a fair trial;
  • Calling on the Kyrgyz government to allow journalists to carry out their work without fear of harassment or obstruction by the authorities.

Send Your Letter To

Minister of Internal Affairs
Kubatbek Baibolov
Frunze Street, 469
Bishkek 720040
KYRGYZSTAN
Fax: +996 312 68 20 44
Email: [email protected]

General Prosecutor
Baitemir Ibraev
72, Orozbekova Street
Bishkek 720040
KYRGYZSTAN
Fax: +996 312 66 54 11
Email: [email protected]

President of the Kyrgyz Republic
Roza Otunbaeva
Dom Pravitelstva
Bishek 720003
Kyrgyzstan
Fax: + 996 312 62 50 12

Please also copy appeals to the diplomatic representative for Kyrgyzstan in your country if possible.