Kyrgyzstan has removed a massive statue of Vladimir Lenin, marking a significant moment in the country’s history. This statue, believed to be the tallest in Central Asia at 23 meters, stood in the city of Osh for half a century. It was first erected during the Soviet era and has been a prominent feature of the city’s skyline.
The statue was quietly taken down this week, with photos showing it lying on the ground after being lowered by a crane. This action reflects a broader trend among former Soviet republics to reshape their national identities and lessen their connections to Russia. However, local officials have played down the significance of the statue’s removal.
Kyrgyz authorities are likely mindful of the potential backlash from Russia, especially after Moscow recently unveiled a new statue of Josef Stalin. In a statement, the City Hall of Osh described the statue’s removal as part of efforts to enhance the city’s architectural and aesthetic appeal. They pointed out that similar actions have been taken in Russia, where Lenin statues have also been removed.
The statue will be replaced by a flagpole, similar to what happened when another Lenin statue was relocated in the capital, Bishkek. This change comes 34 years after Kyrgyzstan gained independence from the Soviet Union, yet reminders of that history remain, including the second-tallest mountain in the country, which is named Lenin Peak.
As Kyrgyzstan moves forward, the removal of this statue signifies a step towards redefining its national identity while balancing its historical ties with Russia.