The opposition accuses President Kurmanbek Bakiyev and the government of failing to deliver on promises to crack down on corruption and raise living standards in the impoverished ex-Soviet republic since coming to power in 2005 on the back of a violent public uprising, or 'tulip revolution.' His rule has been marred by economic problems, high-profile murders, prison riots, and disputes over the control of lucrative businesses.
Bakiyev submitted Monday a draft of the law On changes to the Constitution of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan to the 75-seat parliament, but the legislature does not have a quorum at present because 28 opposition PMs decided to boycott today's session and the bill has been sent to the parliamentary committee for revision.
Opposition leaders believe that the move will postpone constitutional reforms until January 2007, although the introduction of immediate changes to the Constitution is one of the key demands of the For Reform opposition movement.
A crowd of about 7,000 protesters gathered midday Monday in front of the government building, continuing for the fifth day in a row, to apply pressure on the president to delegate some of his powers to legislature, or resign.
In an apparent attempt to satisfy some of the opposition demands, Bakiyev fired acting Interior Minister Osmonaly Guronov and appointed to the post his deputy, Omurbek Seuvanaliyev, who immediately pledged to dismiss Bishkek police chief, Moldomus Kogantiyev, whose resignation has been sought by the opposition.
Bakiyev also promised to meet with opposition leaders and discuss the current political standoff in the country.
At present, the protesters continue the rally announcing their determination to remain in front of the government building until all their demands, including immediate resignation of President Bakiyev and Prime Minister Felix Kulov, are satisfied.
