Activists demand to withdraw casino bill, impose moratorium for 20 years
Activists demand to withdraw the bill on opening of casino. Akzholtoi Tukunov told 24.kg news agency.
«The deputies have already approved the bill in the first reading. We ask to withdraw it. After that, we demand a moratorium on the activities of casinos and gambling establishments for 10-20 years. We also receive information that gambling establishments are also operating illegally now. They are covered by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the State Committee for National Security. We will also advocate for their closure,» he said.
Instead of development of gambling activities to attract foreign tourists, activists propose to develop ethnic, eco and medical tourism.
«In this case, cultural tourists will visit our country, and we will not contradict our traditions,» the activist said.
He noted that rallies against opening of casinos are taking place throughout the republic, and they will continue until the bill is withdrawn and the activists’ demands are met.
Courts of Bishkek banned holding of rallies. Rallies and protests can only be held in the Maxim Gorky mini park.
On May 11, the Parliament approved the bill on casinos in the first reading. The initiative to legalize gambling establishments caused a massive public outcry. Some support it, others oppose it, including the clergy. President Sadyr Japarov called criticism against the possible resumption of gambling activities in the Kyrgyz Republic a «black PR».
