Kyrgyz foreign ministry comments on OSCE Media Freedom Representative's statement on closure of April TV channel

AKIPRESS.COM - Kyrgyz foreign ministry commented on OSCE Media Freedom Representative Harlem Désir's statement which expressed concern about the closure of April TV channel in Kyrgyzstan.
On 9 August, the TV channel April was shut down after security forces sealed off the office's headquarters in Bishkek, as part of a security operation.
"I am concerned by the seizure of assets of the TV channel April and the suspension of its operations," the Representative said.
The foreign ministry said that the April TV channel's owner, who are suspected of serious crimes, got their properties arrested based on the Kyrgyz laws.
The property of the channel was not arrested in connection with their editorial policy, content or their attitude towards the authorities.
"Throughout its existence, April TV channel, despite being opposition, has never been subjected to any oppression or restrictions. There are no restrictions on freedom of expression or broadcasting," the statement said.
Kyrgyzstan has consistently demonstrated an unshakable commitment to the principles of democracy, including human rights, freedom of expression and diversity of the media, in accordance with its OSCE commitments, the statement added.