05 Apr 2019 | 08:30 AM UTC
Kyrgyzstan: Commemorative events planned in Bishkek April 7
Civil society groups plan to hold annual commemorative events in Bishkek on April 7, the anniversary of the 2010 revolution
Event
Events to commemorate the anniversary of the 2010 People's Revolution are expected to be held in Bishkek on Sunday, April 7. According to civil society groups, unlike in previous years, the government has not provided any state fund for the commemorative events. However, prayers are expected to be held at the newly opened "Heroes of 7 April" mosque and at the Ata Beyit memorial. April 7 is also a non-working public holiday. Heightened security measures and transportation and business disruptions are possible in Bishkek and other cities on Sunday.
Context
Mass anti-government protests in Bishkek turned violent on April 7, 2010, resulting in almost 100 people being killed by security forces. The protests ousted then-President Kurmanbek Bakiev from office. In 2016, President Almazbek Atambaev officially recognized April 7 as a public holiday.
Advice
Individuals in Bishkek, and Kyrgyzstan more generally, on April 7 are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate a heightened security presence and commercial disruptions, and avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public.
