Journalists Sentenced in Kyrgyzstan: Press Freedom Under Siege

A Kyrgyz court sentenced two journalists to prison and two to probation for allegedly inciting unrest, a decision heavily criticized by international media rights groups. The journalists, who denied the charges, were among a group of 11 detained in January. The case highlights growing concerns over press freedom in Kyrgyzstan.

A court in Kyrgyzstan sentenced two journalists to prison terms on charges of inciting unrest, adding fuel to concerns about press freedom in the country.

The reporters were part of a group of 11 journalists detained earlier this year, a move which sparked criticism from Western officials.

While two journalists received prison sentences and two got probation, seven others were acquitted. The rights organization Reporters Without Borders condemned the verdict as a baseless attempt to stifle independent journalism and demanded their release.

(With inputs from agencies.)