Kyrgyzstan: President Jeenbekov resigns amid ongoing unrest October 15 /update 9

Event

Authorities announced on Thursday, October 15, that Kyrgyz President Sooronbai Jeenbekov has resigned due to ongoing unrest following a disputed election. Jeenbekov announced that he has resigned to prevent further clashes between protesters, who have demanded his removal, and pro-government groups, as well as security forces. A state of emergency remains in place in Bishkek until October 21.

Further related protests and associated disruption should be anticipated in the immediate term.

Context

Multiple opposition groups have publicly contested the results of the country's parliamentary election on Sunday, October 4, with only four of 16 registered parties having passed the seven percent vote-share threshold in order to gain seats in the legislature. Three of the four parties that were elected to the new parliament had close ties to President Sooronbai Jeenbekov, and opposition groups have accused the government of vote-buying and intimidation during the election campaign, allegations which international monitors have stated are credible.

On October 14, Jeenbekov accepted parliament's choice of Sadyr Japarov as prime minister. Japarov, a nationalist whose supporters freed him from prison amid unrest last week, had been demanding that Jeenbekov leave office.

Advice

Those in Kyrgyzstan are advised to monitor developments, avoid demonstrations and political gatherings, avoid discussing politically sensitive topics in public or via social media, and heed any directives issued by local authorities.