In a rare public enforcement moment, Kyrgyz Interior Minister Ulan Niyazbekov has been fined by his own subordinates for smoking in a public area in central Bishkek.

The incident was captured on video in front of the Old Square just before Eid prayers. Niyazbekov promptly paid the required 3,000 som fine, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.

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Публикация от НОВОСТИ КЫРГЫЗСТАНА (@24_kg)

Authorities emphasized that regardless of position, everyone must follow the law, highlighting a rare moment of accountability at the highest levels of government in Kyrgyzstan.