Kyrgyz parliament selects Chinese crossovers for official use

In May 2025, members of the Jogorku Kenesh, Kyrgyzstan’s parliament, will receive new official vehicles — Chinese LiXiang hybrid crossovers — according to the 24.kg news agency. Although the national budget did not include a specific allocation for the cars, funding will be redirected from other state programs.

The original 2025 budget did not account for purchasing vehicles for lawmakers. However, Kyrgyz media reports indicate that the funding will come from money initially allocated for special vehicles and buses for the mayor’s office.

In fall 2024, members of parliament introduced a draft law to reinstate official vehicles, arguing they were necessary for fulfilling legislative duties and engaging with constituents. At the time, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov opposed the initiative, while the Ministry of Finance cited additional costs that were not included in the 2025-2026 budget.

Despite this, in March 2025, Japarov signed amendments to the law on the status of MPs, allowing funds to be allocated for vehicles.

The decision to provide cars to lawmakers was made in a closed-door meeting. Sources say officials selected Chinese LiXiang hybrid crossovers, likely due to their eco-friendliness and fuel efficiency. Under the plan, the parliamentary speaker, deputy speakers, committee chairpersons and party leaders will receive the LiXiang L9 model, while other MPs will be assigned the L7 model.

LiXiang’s premium vehicles offer an extended range, running on electric power with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that functions as a generator. In Kazakhstan, new L7 models cost an average of $46,000, while L9 models start at $55,500.

As early as next month, 70 MPs are set to receive these luxury cars. Each vehicle will come with a driver, and lawmakers will be issued charging coupons for convenience. Notably, driver salaries will not be covered by the state budget but instead paid «from lawmakers’ personal funds,» according to reports.