Kyrgyz opposition came up with an ultimatum yesterday and gave President Kurmanbek Bakiyev until Friday night to make up his mind. The opposition demands from the president to agree to establishment of a "genuine opposition government" and announce an early election of the head of state or face the music otherwise. By that it means that the demands will be made even harsher than they already are.

Rumors could be heard in Kyrgyzstan for the first time yesterday that Russia might finally intercede. Deputy Chairman Kybanchybek Isabekov told the parliament that Senior Deputy Premier Sergei Ivanov might turn up in Bishkek in the near future. "I hear that Russia is annoyed with both Bakiyev and Felix Kulov and that Moscow has an alternative to suggest," Isabekov said. "In the long run, of course, the decision is up to the people. If you ask me, however, there is something to it."

No official confirmation of the possibility could be obtained yesterday. Observers point out in the meantime that the clout Russia and its leaders wield in Kyrgyzstan has been traditionally considerable. Vladimir Putin's rating for instance is far above the ratings of Kyrgyz leaders.

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Bek Orozaliyev (Bishkek)

Kommersant, April 6, 2007, p. 9

© Translated by Ferghana.Ru