24 Nov 2021 | 03:22 PM UTC
Kyrgyzstan: Parliamentary election scheduled for Nov. 28
Kyrgyzstan to hold parliamentary election nationwide Nov. 28. Related rallies and increased security are likely.
Event
Kyrgyzstan will hold parliamentary elections Nov. 28. Election rallies, campaign events, and demonstrations are likely ahead of and following the poll. Civil unrest typically spikes in the wake of national elections in Kyrgyzstan. Impromptu gatherings and rival demonstrations are possible in central squares and outside major government buildings, particularly in Bishkek and Osh.
Heightened security and localized business and transportation disruptions are likely near polling stations and political demonstrations. Protests and clashes between supporters of rival political groups or protesters and security forces are possible at election-related gatherings.
Context
The ballot will be the country’s fourth since protests over irregularities in the October 2020 parliamentary elections led to the resignation of President Sooronbay Jeenbekov. The new Parliament will likely serve solely as a platform for discussions. On Jan. 10, voters approved the change of Kyrgyzstan’s constitution to a presidential system, which significantly reduced Parliament's powers. In addition, President Sadyr Japarov approved a new electoral code in August, which reduced the number of seats from 120 to 90 and introduced a new voting system. According to the code, voters will elect 54 seats through the national party list and 36 seats in single-mandate districts. Although irregularities have already been reported and related allegations are likely to increase in the coming days, violations are unlikely to reach the level of the 2020 parliamentary election.
Advice
Prepare for increased security and related disruptions until the parliamentary election ends, especially on polling day. Avoid political party offices, political rallies, polling stations, and government buildings where political unrest is most likely to occur. If a large gathering begins forming, immediately leave the area or seek shelter in a secure, nongovernment building. Allow additional time for travel near election events.
