(MENAFN) Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov announced on Saturday that the restoration of the death penalty for rape and murder targeting women and children will be decided through a nationwide referendum.

In an interview with a state news agency, Japarov linked the move to a rising wave of violent crimes against vulnerable groups. “The reasons are clear to everyone. We are seeing more cases of sexual assault against minors, not only in Kyrgyzstan but across the world,” he said.

The president emphasized that the initiative is designed to safeguard women and children, dismissing allegations of political motivation. “We will not make such a decision unilaterally. We will certainly consult with the people,” Japarov stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to adhere strictly to constitutional processes.

Japarov outlined that a draft bill, titled “On Amendments to Article 25 of the Constitution,” will first undergo public consultation before being submitted to the Constitutional Court for examination.

“This bill could be adopted by referendum. The issue will be decided only by a popular vote,” he confirmed.

Should the referendum pass, the next parliament would be tasked with amending national legislation and withdrawing from international treaties prohibiting capital punishment, the president explained.

The call for harsher penalties reignited after the shocking murder of 17-year-old Aisuluu Mukasheva in late September, a case that sparked widespread public outrage. Japarov said he personally took charge of the investigation and vowed to intensify efforts to protect women and children.

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