2010 Kyrgyz Revolution

Revolution that overthrew President Kurmanbek Bakiyev April 2018 2010 Kyrgyz Revolution Burning truck bishkek protests.jpg An opposition-captured vehicle burns near the capitol building during citywide protests and riots in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on 7 April 2010. Guards can be seen to the left of the smoke. 6–15 April 2010 (04 6 2010 04 15 2010) Kyrgyzstan * Authoritarianism Economic and energy crises Protests, riots Democratization of Kyrgyzstan Resignation of president Kurmanbek Bakiyev and his government Governmental shift from presidentialism to parliamentarism Early parliamentary elections held on 10 October 2010 Kyrgyzstan 1992 Government of Kyrgyzstan Military Ensign of Kyrgyz Armed Forces (Kyrgyz).svg Armed Forces Logomvd.png Ministry of the Interior Emblem of State Committee for National Security.png State Committee for National Security Ak Jol SDPK.svg SDPKRespublika Party of Kyrgyzstan.png Respublika Ata Meken logo.png Ata-Meken Ar-Namys logo.png Ar-Namys Ata-Jurt Kyrgyzstan party logo.png Ata-Zhurt Flag of the United Kyrgyzstan.svg United Kyrgyzstan Flag of the President of Kyrgyzstan.svg Kurmanbek Bakiyev Logomvd.png Moldomusa Kongantiyev Emblem of State Committee for National Security.png Murat Sutalinov SDPK.svg Roza Otunbayeva SDPK.svg Almazbek Atambayev Respublika Party of Kyrgyzstan.png Ömürbek Babanov Ata Meken logo.png Bolot Sher-Niyaz Ata Meken logo.png Koisun Kurmanalieva Ata Meken logo.png Sheraly Abdyldaev Ar-Namys logo.png Felix Kulov Ata-Jurt Kyrgyzstan party logo.png Kamchybek Tashiev Flag of the United Kyrgyzstan.svg Adakhan Madumarov ~5,000 protesters 3 dead, 111 injured 118 dead, 400 injured ~2,000 1,500+ 97 arrested The 2010 Kyrgyz Revolution, also known as the Second Kyrgyz Revolution, the Melon Revolution,Boris Isayev 6 April 2019 Политическая история: революции. Учебник для бакалавриата и магистратуры https://books.google.com/books?id=Ur-HDwAAQBAJ&q=%D0%94%D1%8B%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%B0%D1%8F+%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%BB%D1%8E%D1%86%D0%B8%D1%8F&pg=PA278 278 ЛитРес 9785041554125https://www.gumilev-center.ru/cvetnye-revolyucii/ Volksparteien verlieren Parteivolk Центр Льва Гумилёва 12 September 2015 ruhttps://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2018-02-15/saakashvili-and-why-color-revolutions-can-t-be-exported Why 'Color Revolutions' Can't Be Exported Bloomberg News 15 February 2018 enhttps://docplayer.org/20912511-Sicherheit-schweiz-delegiertenversammlung-sog-ukraine-und-russland-controlling-v-kdt-lw-zum-f-5-tiger-allgemeine-schweizerische-militaerzeitschrift.html Zweischneidige Sanktionen gegen Russland Allgemeine Schweizerische Militärzeitschrift de Allgemeine Schweizerische Militärzeitschrift April 2015 de the April Events,https://24.kg/english/80944_Asiya_Sasykbaeva_It_is_blasphemy_to_mark_April_events/ Asiya Sasykbaeva: It is blasphemy to mark April events Aida DZHUMASHOVA 7 April 2018ky Апрель окуясы Aprel okuiasy, ky apˈɾel oqʊjɑˈsɯ pron or officially as the People's April Revolution (ky Апрель Элдик революциясы Aprel Yeldik revolyutsiyasy),Matveeva Anna Savin Igor Faizullaev Bahrom Kyrgyzstan: Tragedy in the South Ethnopolitics Papers April 2012 17 https://web.archive.org/web/20160507023750/http://www.valerytishkov.ru/engine/documents/document1928.pdf 7 May 2016 live http://www.valerytishkov.ru/engine/documents/document1928.pdf began in April 2010 with the ousting of Kyrgyz president Kurmanbek Bakiyev in the capital Bishkek. It was followed by increased ethnic tension involving Kyrgyz people and Uzbeks in the south of the country, which escalated in June 2010. The violence ultimately led to the consolidation of a new parliamentary system in Kyrgyzstan. During the general mayhem, exiles from the Uzbek minority claim they were assaulted and driven to Uzbekistan, with some 400,000 Kyrgyzstani citizens becoming internally displaced.https://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/jun/17/kyrgyzstan-uzbek-pogrom-refugees London The Guardian Uzbek refugees from Kyrgyzstan pogrom vow to return Luke Harding 17 June 2010 Victims interviewed by media and aid workers testify to mass killing, gang rape and torture.http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/06/17/kyrgyzstan.victims/index.html?section=cnn_latest CNN Victims recount horrors of ethnic violence in Kyrgyzstan 17 June 2010 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20250814080444/http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/06/17/kyrgyzstan.victims/index.html?section=cnn_latest Aug 14, 2025 Then-head of the Interim government Roza Otunbayeva indicated that the death toll is tenfold higher than was previously reported, which brings the number of the dead to 2,000 people. Background Domestic policy During the winter of 2009–2010, Kyrgyzstan suffered from rolling blackouts and cutoffs occurring regularly while energy prices rose.Apr 7, 2010 Kyrgyzstan: The Causes Behind the Crisis https://worldview.stratfor.com/article/kyrgyzstan-causes-behind-crisis subscription live https://archive.today/20210425095546/https://worldview.stratfor.com/article/kyrgyzstan-causes-behind-crisis 25 April 2021 Stratfor In January 2010, Kyrgyzstan sent a delegation to China to discuss improved economic relations.http://www.jamestown.org/single/?no_cache=1&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=35918&tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=228&cHash=039c64f857 Kyrgyzstan Boosts Cooperation With China Eurasia Daily Monitor 7 10 15 January 2010 The Jamestown Foundation Erica Marat dead https://web.archive.org/web/20160303173509/http://www.jamestown.org/single/?no_cache=1&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=35918&tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=228&cHash=039c64f857 Mar 3, 2016 Kyrgyzstan national electric company Natsionalnaya electricheskaya syet and the Chinese Tebian Electric signed a $342 million contract to build the Datka-Kemin 500 kV power transmission lines. This would have reduced Kyrgyzstan's dependence on the Central Asian power systems and energy dependence on Russia. The delegation was led by then President Bakiyev's son. In February 2010, Kyrgyzstan proposed raising energy tariffs. Heating costs were reportedly going to rise 400% and electricity by 170%.Asman Liat February 7, 2010 Kyrgyzstan: Utility Price Hike Squeezes Citizens http://www.eurasianet.org/departments/insightb/articles/eav020810.shtml dead https://web.archive.org/web/20171012062753/http://www.eurasianet.org/departments/insightb/articles/eav020810.shtml Oct 12, 2017 EurasiaNet.org Long-term frustration was building in Kyrgyzstan over the perceived corruption and cronyism in the Bakiyev administration, as well as the country's poor economic situation and a recent rise in utility rates. Violent protests engulf Kyrgyzstan Al Jazeera 7 April 2010 http://english.aljazeera.net//news/asia/2010/04/2010476722560744.html 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100409005654/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/2010476722560744.html 9 April 2010 dead Tynan Deirdre Kadyr Toktogulov Yochi J. Dreazen Violent Revolt Ousts Kyrgyz President subscription The Wall Street Journal 7 April 2010 https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702304505204575169273901877794?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100410201934/http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304505204575169273901877794.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines 10 April 2010 live The sporadic and chaotic protests took many off guard both in Kyrgyzstan and abroad. The Guardian, a British national daily newspaper, published an article on 8 April that suggested the revolt could be dubbed the Fir Tree Revolution after the shrubs that looters dug up from the front garden of Kurmanbek Bakiyev.Kyrgyzstan capital bloodied, looted and chaotic after overthrow of Bakiyev Guardian 8 April 2010 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/apr/08/kyrgyzstan-revolt-over-kurmanbek-bakiyev Luke Harding London 9 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100410204908/http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/apr/08/kyrgyzstan-revolt-over-kurmanbek-bakiyev 10 April 2010 live United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon arrived in Kyrgyzstan on 3 April, and protesters gathered outside the UN's headquarters in the capital of Bishkek to inform Ban Ki-moon of the media situation. A small group of protesters then moved to the center of town, but were stopped by police.Ban visit prompts Kyrgyzstan rally Al Jazeera 3 April 2010 http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201043113538153931.html 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100406170740/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201043113538153931.html 6 April 2010 live Foreign policy Some people in the media suggested that the riots in the country and the opposition claim of having taken over the government were akin to the Tulip Revolution in 2005.Alisher Khamidov http://www.eurasianhome.org/xml/t/expert.xml?lang=en&nic=expert&pid=2361&qmonth=0&qyear=0 Eurasian Home Expert Forum – Alisher Khamidov: Another Tulip revolution in Kyrgyzstan? Eurasianhome.org 9 April 2010 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110721072810/http://www.eurasianhome.org/xml/t/expert.xml?lang=en&nic=expert&pid=2361&qmonth=0&qyear=0 21 July 2011 There is also an ongoing debate regarding the continuing US military presence in Kyrgyzstan.Kyrgyz Opposition Group Says It Will Rule for 6 Months 8 April 2010 https://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/09/world/asia/09bishkek.html The New York Times Clifford J. Levy 8 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100411054937/http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/09/world/asia/09bishkek.html 11 April 2010 live Russia backed Bakiyev's government until March 2010. The Eurasian Daily Monitor reported on 1 April that, for two weeks, the Kremlin had used the Russian mass media to run a negative campaign against Bakiyev. Russia controls much of the media in Kyrgyzstan. The campaign sought to associate Bakiyev and his son, Maxim Bakiyev, with an allegedly corrupt businessman whose company had worked in a government project. It quoted that an arrest warrant had been issued in early March by Italian judge Aldo Morgigni for Eugene Gourevitch, a Kyrgyz-American who was accused of defrauding Telecom Italia.Gorst Isabel Italy tax inquiry draws in Kyrgyz aid fund Financial Times 16 March 2010 https://www.ft.com/content/59c363cc-309c-11df-a24b-00144feabdc0 7 April 2010 Gourevitch was at the time the managing director of a consulting agency that advised Kyrgyzstan's Development Fund, which in turn was managed by the Central Agency run by Maxim.Brewing Financial Scandal Stoking Media Controversy EurasiaNet 11 March 2010 http://eurasianet.org/departments/insight/articles/eav031110c.shtml 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100528050445/http://eurasianet.org/departments/insight/articles/eav031110c.shtml 28 May 2010 dead The government soon began closing independent news outlets that reported on Gourevitch affair. Two newspapers were shut down on 18 March. Radio Azattyk, the Kyrgyz-language service of RFE/RL, went off the air shortly afterward. The opposition newspaper Forum was shut on 31 March, and the independent website Stan.tv had its equipment removed on 1 April.Trilling David UN Head Chides Bakiyev as More Media Outlets Blocked EurasiaNet 5 April 2010 http://www.eurasianet.org/departments/civilsociety/articles/eav040510.shtml 7 April 2010 The sudden campaign coincided with Bakiyev's failure to carry out Russia's various demands related to things such as military bases.Russian Mass Media Attack Bakiyev. Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 7 Issue: 63. 1 April 2010. 10 September 2009. On 1 April Russia also imposed duties on energy exports to Kyrgyzstan, claiming that a customs union between Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan had forced it. It influenced fuel and transport prices immediately, and reportedly led to a massive protest in Talas on 6 April.Kyrgyzstan: Is Putin punishing Bakiyev?. EurasiaNet Eurasia Insight. 6 April 2010. Michael McFaul, a senior United States White House adviser on Russian affairs stated in Prague that the seizure of power by the Kyrgyz opposition was not anti-American in nature, and was not a Russian backed coup."Future of US base in Kyrgyzstan in question", BBC News, 9 April 2010 However, Omurbek Tekebayev, who is in charge of constitutional matters in the new government, said: "Russia played its role in ousting Bakiyev. You've seen the level of Russia's joy when they saw Bakiyev gone." Furthermore, Russian Prime Minister, Vladimir Putin, was the first foreign leader to recognise Roza Otunbayeva as the new Kyrgyz leader, and rang her soon after she announced she was in charge, while the deputy head of the interim Kyrgyz government, Almazbek Atambayev, flew to Moscow on 9 April for consultation with unspecified Russian government officials, ITAR-Tass news agency reported.Russia helped rout leaders: Kyrgyz rebels, by Yuras Karmanau, dated 10 April 2010, smh.com.au Vice-chairman of the State Duma of Russia Vladimir Zhirinovsky stated that the United States was involved in events in Kyrgyzstan to gain control of Manas Air Base.http://www.5-tv.ru/news/28064/ https://archive.today/20120723114817/http://www.5-tv.ru/news/28064/ dead 23 July 2012 see 04:37 5-tv.ru 17 January 2012 Stratfor reported on 13 April "Given its strategic location, control of Kyrgyzstan offers the ability to pressure Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and China. Kyrgyzstan is thus a critical piece in Russia's overall plan to resurge into its former Soviet sphere".Kyrgyzstan and the Russian Resurgence. Stratfor. 13 April 2010 Uprising in Bishkek On 6 April 2010, a demonstration in Talas by opposition leaders protested against government corruption and increased living expenses. The protests turned violent and spread nationwide.Maxim Tkachenko http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/04/08/kyrgyzstan.violence/index.html?iref=allsearch Kyrgyz president says he won't resign CNN.com 9 April 2010 17 April 2010 On 7 April 2010, Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev imposed a state of emergency. Police and special services arrested many opposition leaders. In response protesters took control over the internal security headquarters (former KGB headquarters) and a state TV channel in the capital, Bishkek.8 April 2010 Opposition seizes power in Kyrgyzstan, many killed in violence https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/opposition-seizes-power-in-kyrgyzstan-many-killed-in-violence 29 March 2025 Reports by Kyrgyzstan government officials indicated that 88 people were killed and 458 hospitalized in bloody clashes with police in the capital. Bakiyev resigned on 15 April and left the country for Belarus.April 2021 6 April Kyrgyzstan Locations of the main disturbances within Kyrgyzstan during April 2010 260 right 8 Bishkek left 42.875 74.612 Talas bottom 42.517 72.233 Naryn right 41.433 76.000 Tokmok right 42.833 75.283 In the western city of Talas approximately 1,000 protesters stormed the government headquarters and briefly took government workers hostage. Security forces retook the building in the early evening, only to be quickly forced out again by protesters.Siegel Matt Interior minister killed in Kyrgyzstan uprising Sydney Morning Herald 7 April 2010 http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-world/interior-minister-killed-in-kyrgyzstan-uprising-20100407-rscu.html 7 April 2010 https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20171012063430/http://www.smh.com.au//breaking-news-world/opposition-storms-parliament-in-kyrgyz-uprising-20100407-rscu.html 12 October 2017 live Two prominent opposition leaders, Omurbek Tekebayev and Almazbek Atambayev, were arrested by Kyrgyz authorities. In Bishkek, a crowd of about 500 protesters began to gather around a bus stop in an industrial area, with several speakers making speeches about the events in Talas. Riot Police armed with batons, shields, and police dogs moved towards the crowd in a rectangular-shaped formation. The police rounded up the protesters and pushed them towards the buses. A large group of protesters then tore through police ranks and ran across the street, grabbed rocks, and attacked police, resulting in a massive fight, during which some policemen lost their helmets and batons.Lee Sustar http://www.socialistworker.org/2010/04/09/uprising-in-kyrgyzstan Uprising in Kyrgyzstan SocialistWorker.org 9 April 2010 17 January 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120303205924/http://www.socialistworker.org/2010/04/09/uprising-in-kyrgyzstan 3 March 2012 dead April 2021 7 April In the morning a small group of protesters were arrested outside the headquarters of the Social Democratic Party in Bishkek. Hundreds of protesters then gathered. Police attempted to stop them using tear gas and stun grenades, but the protesters overwhelmed the police, and took control of two armored vehicles and numerous automatic weapons. The protest group, now numbering between three and five thousand, then moved towards the center of town and into Ala-Too Square, where gunshots and stun grenades could be heard, and protesters were seen fleeing. Protesters in Bishkek filled Ala-Too Square and surrounded the White House, the office of Kyrgyzstan's president.Saralayeva Leila Protesters clash with police in Kyrgyzstan Associated Press 7 April 2010 https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iY7jSEWaqNHm0CVfJW_mPe1KLydQD9ETNE501 7 April 2010 June 2024 medicmedicLeonard Peter Violence erupts at Kyrgyzstan opposition rallies Associated Press 7 April 2010 https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iY7jSEWaqNHm0CVfJW_mPe1KLydQD9EU42SG1 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100411085237/https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iY7jSEWaqNHm0CVfJW_mPe1KLydQD9EU42SG1 11 April 2010 dead Police began using tear gas, rubber bullets, and stun grenades to disperse protesters.Kyrgyzstan protests spread to capital, Bishkek BBC 7 April 2010 https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8606504.stm 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100408033515/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8606504.stm 8 April 2010 live In an attempt to gain entrance to the presidential office, demonstrators drove two trucks into the gates of the White House, at which point it was reported that police started firing on protesters with live ammunition.Mobs roam Bishkek, gunfire continues EurasiaNet 7 April 2010 http://eurasianet.org/departments/insight/articles/eav040710c.shtml 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20180406231103/https://eurasianet.org/departments/insight/articles/eav040710c.shtml 6 April 2018 dead Witnesses reported that both protesters and riot police were wounded during the clashes, and at least forty-one protesters were killed.The New York Times Upheaval in Kyrgyzstan as Leader Flees Levy Clifford J. https://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/08/world/asia/08bishkek.html 7 April 2010 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100408030852/http://www.nytimes.com//2010//04//08//world//asia//08bishkek.html 8 April 2010 live A state of emergency was declared, as well as a curfew from 10 pm to 6 am.State of emergency declared in Kyrgyzstan RTÉ News 7 April 2010 http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/0407/kyrgyzstan.html 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100410184633/http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/0407/kyrgyzstan.html 10 April 2010 live Later that day opposition leaders and demonstrators stormed the parliament building, led by the opposition leader Omurbek Tekebayev, who had been arrested the day before but was subsequently released.Rioters storm Parliament in Kyrgyzstan capital RIA Novosti 7 April 2010 http://en.rian.ru/exsoviet/20100407/158468470.html 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100409091211/http://en.rian.ru/exsoviet/20100407/158468470.html 9 April 2010 dead The headquarters for KTR, Kyrgyzstan's main television broadcaster, was also taken over by protesters. After being off the air for part of the day, KTR resumed transmission Wednesday evening featuring members of the opposition as well as human rights representatives.Kyrgyz opposition leaders appear on state TV RIA Novosti 7 April 2010 http://en.rian.ru/exsoviet/20100407/158466963.html 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100408164138/http://en.rian.ru/exsoviet/20100407/158466963.html 8 April 2010 dead By late Wednesday opposition leaders had announced the formation of a new government, and soon thereafter reports came in that President Bakiyev had left Bishkek and flown to Osh in southern Kyrgyzstan.Leonard Peter Kyrgyzstan opposition forms own new government Associated Press 7 April 2010 https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iY7jSEWaqNHm0CVfJW_mPe1KLydQD9EUBJ200 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100411210621/https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iY7jSEWaqNHm0CVfJW_mPe1KLydQD9EUBJ200 11 April 2010 deadLevy Clifford Opposition Claims Control in Kyrgyzstan The New York Times 7 April 2010 https://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/08/world/asia/08bishkek.html?hp 19 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100411054417/http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/08/world/asia/08bishkek.html?hp 11 April 2010 live There were no reported demonstrations in Osh. thumb|left|Kyrgyz entering the otherwise-closed White House lawn following protests in Bishkek on 7 April.In addition to Bishkek and Talas, rallies and protests were reported in other parts of the country, including Naryn, Tokmok, and the Issyk-Kul region.ru:Ситуация в Нарыне (обновлено) AKIpress (АКИpress) 7 April 2010 http://kg.akipress.org/news:188531 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100411035106/http://www1.kg.akipress.org/news%3A188531 11 April 2010 live ru ru:Ситуация в Токмаке AKIpress (АКИpress) 7 April 2010 http://kg.akipress.org/news:188811 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100411035114/http://www1.kg.akipress.org/news%3A188811 11 April 2010 live ru ru:Ситуация на Иссык-Куле (обновлено) AKIpress (АКИpress) 7 April 2010 http://kg.akipress.org/news:188861 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100411035128/http://www1.kg.akipress.org/news%3A188861 11 April 2010 live ru There were also reports that the government of the Issyk-Kul region had been taken over by members of opposition parties.ru:Власть в Иссык-Кульской области Киргизии перешла в руки оппозиции RIA Novosti 7 April 2010 http://www.rian.ru/world/20100407/219077496.html 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100410200222/http://rian.ru/world/20100407/219077496.html 10 April 2010 live ru There was an information blackout throughout much of the country, as TV stations went off the air and both phones and internet became unreliable.Four Confirmed Dead, State of Emergency Declared EurasiaNet 7 April 2010 http://eurasianet.org/departments/insight/articles/eav040710b.shtml 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20160305012021/http://www.eurasianet.org/departments/insight/articles/eav040710b.shtml 5 March 2016 dead There were conflicting reports about the fate of Kyrgyz Interior Minister Moldomusa Kongantiyev. Some reports said he was being held hostage by protesters in Talas, while other reports said he had been killed.Kyrgyz interior minister taken hostage by protesters – media Xinhua 7 April 2010 http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/world/2010-04/07/c_13241078.htm 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100412132253/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/world/2010-04/07/c_13241078.htm 12 April 2010 deadKyrgyz Interior Minister killed in protests – media Xinhua 7 April 2010 http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/world/2010-04/07/c_13241258.htm 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100410231612/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/world/2010-04/07/c_13241258.htm 10 April 2010 dead17 dead, over 140 injured in Kyrgyzstan riots: Official The Gazette 7 April 2010 https://montrealgazette.com/news/world/dead+over+injured+Kyrgyzstan+riots+Official/2772745/story.html 7 April 2010 November 2010 The Kyrgyz Interior Ministry denied reports of his death, calling them "fictitious".ru:МВД Киргизии опровергло известие о смерти своего руководителя Lenta.ru 7 April 2010 http://lenta.ru/news/2010/04/07/mvd1/ 7 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100409043022/http://lenta.ru/news/2010/04/07/mvd1/ 9 April 2010 live ru There were also reports saying he had been badly battered, but had survived.July 2021 Kongantiyev was later shown badly beaten, but alive. Opposition leaders announced that they had formed a new provisional government headed by Roza Otunbayeva.https://www.rferl.org/a/Opposition_Protesters_March_Across_Kyrgyzstan/2004868.html Radio Free Europe Radiofreeeurope/Radioliberty Rferl.org 17 January 2012 thumb|right|The charred shell of the prosecutor's office in Bishkek, which caught fire during the demonstrations. 8 April President Bakiyev, who was confirmed by the Kyrgyzstan Ministry of Defense to be in his residence in Osh,http://www.prime-tass.ru/news/0/%7BDEF5FCE6-D448-4F98-8147-1EB196186DEF%7D.uif ru:Президент Киргизии К.Бакиев находится в городе Ош 8 April 2010 8 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100411201800/http://www.prime-tass.ru/news/0/%7BDEF5FCE6-D448-4F98-8147-1EB196186DEF%7D.uif 11 April 2010 dead ru has acknowledged that he currently had no power to influence events in the country, though he refused to resign his post. https://www.rferl.org/a/Kyrgyz_Opposition_Claims_Power_Vows_To_Investigate_Bakievs_Rule/2006140.html Kyrgyz President Won't Back Down, As Opposition Claims Power 8 April 2010 19 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100411194015/http://www.rferl.org/content/Kyrgyz_Opposition_Claims_Power_Vows_To_Investigate_Bakievs_Rule/2006140.html 11 April 2010 live Even with the opposition reporting itself in control of the police and the army, residents in Bishkek began forming volunteer militias to stave off marauders. The interim government announced it would hold on to power for six months, when presidential elections would be held. http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90777/90851/6944774.html Presidential vote in Kyrgyzstan in 6 months: interim leader 8 April 2010 19 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100413185606/http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90777/90851/6944774.html 13 April 2010 live 9–14 April A few days later Bakiyev commented from his hometown of Osh that he would not resign and called for the UN to send troops to the country to restore order.April 2010 A rally in his hometown was followed by another bigger rally giving him support in his quest to return to the seat of government.April 2010 In response the interim Interior Minister said an arrest warrant would be issued for him while his immunity was removed.http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201041361127325871.html Ultimatum for ousted Kyrgyz leader – Central & South Asia Al Jazeera English 17 January 2012 On 13 April, Bakiyev said he would resign should his security and that of his family and entourage be guaranteed. He said "In what case would I resign? First of all, they should guarantee that in Kyrgyzstan there are no more people walking around with weapons, and no seizures or redistribution of property. Also, I need to know that my own security and the security of members of my family and those close to me will be assured." http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201041451132810236.html Medvedev fears 'Kyrgyz civil war' Al Jazeera 14 April 2010 20 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100417064359/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201041451132810236.html 17 April 2010 live The interim government said it could only guarantee his security should he resign and leave the country.April 2010 Tension mounted in the country when the interim government threatened to hunt down Bakiyev while simultaneously offering an olive branch should he go into exile. In response Bakiyev said "Let them try to seize me. Let them try to kill me. I believe this will lead to such a great deal of bloodshed which no one will be able to justify." https://calgaryherald.com/news/Kyrgyz+interim+govt+mounts+pressure+Bakiyev/2873327/story.html Dmitry Solovyov 13 April 2010 Kyrgyz interim govt mounts pressure on Bakiyev 20 April 2010 February 2020 InternetArchiveBot yes During a nuclear summit in Washington the Russian President Dmitry Medvedev suggested Kyrgyzstan was in the throes of a civil war and that it could turn into a "second Afghanistan" if the political deadlock was not resolved. He said that "The risk of Kyrgyzstan breaking apart – into the south and the north – really exist[ed]." On 14 April 2010, interim leader Roza Otunbayeva announced that President Bakiyev, his defense minister, as well as relatives in government and political allies would face trial over the deaths of protesters. A Kyrgyz court issued an arrest warrant for Bakiyev's brother Janybek Bakiyev, eldest son Marat Bakiyev and former Prime Minister Daniar Usenov.http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/2010412294846.html 7 October 2012 Breaking News, World News and Video from al Jazeera June 2016 medicmedic Bakiyev resignation On 15 April at a rally by Bakiyev in front of a 1,000 supporters gunshots were heard, although Bakiyev was reported to have safely left the scene. Some claimed that the firing came from his own bodyguards in order to keep the peace and avoid a confrontation with opponents. Shooting disrupts Kyrgyzstan rally http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/20104156123795859.html 15 April 2010 Al Jazeera 20 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100418195559/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/20104156123795859.html 18 April 2010 dead Later in the day Bakiyev was reported to have flown into exile to the Kazakhstani city of Taraz. it was said that he would continue negotiations on a settlement to the crisis from exile. The interim government responded to this by calling his departure a "deportation", saying he had allegedly submitted a request to resign amid reports indicating that Baktybek Kaliyev, a former defence minister, had been arrested. The interim government also said it would seek Bakiyev's transfer to a Kyrgyz or international court for trial at a later date. Kazakhstan, as the chair of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe, confirmed Bakiyev's departure saying it was an important step towards preventing civil war. It added that joint efforts between themselves and Dmitry Medvedev and Barack Obama had fostered such an agreement.http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/2010415145148592349.html Ousted leader leaves Kyrgyzstan 15 Apr 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20110209043728/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/2010415145148592349.html 2011-02-09 Al Jazeera English 17 January 2012 Bakiyev submitted a hand-written resignation letter saying "I tender my resignation in these tragic days as I understand the full scale of my responsibility for the future of the Kyrgyz people". The interim president allegedly said "he had become a source of instability ... [that] they could no longer tolerate that".http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201041675419153353.html Kyrgyz president 'formally resigns' 16 Apr 2010 Al Jazeera English 17 January 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110605130211/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201041675419153353.html Jun 5, 2011 She added that most of his entourage was still in the country and that she would press ahead with bringing Bakyiev to trial.http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/2010416183120857566.html Kyrgyzstan to seek Bakiyev's trial 16 Apr 2010 Al Jazeera English 17 January 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110605132314/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/2010416183120857566.html Jun 5, 2011 On 20 April, the Belarusian president, Alexander Lukashenko said his country had afforded Bakiyev and three members of his family "the protection of our state, and personally of the president."http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201042013289607380.html Deposed Kyrgyz leader in Belarus 20 Apr 2010 Al Jazeera English 17 January 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110131000530/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201042013289607380.html Jan 31, 2011 On 21 April, in a statement from Minsk, Bakiyev said he still considers himself the country's president and pledged to do all he can to return the country to its "constitutional field".http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/04/21/kyrgyz.president/index.html Maxim Tkachenko Ousted Kyrgyz president says he is country's leader CNN 21 April 2010 17 January 2012 He then upped the ante by saying, "I do not recognise my resignation. Nine months ago the people of Kyrgyzstan elected me their president and there is no power that can stop me. Only death can stop me". He then called on the international community not to support the interim government. "Everyone must know the bandits who are trying to take power are the executors of an external force and have no legitimacy." He called on leaders of the international community: do not "set a precedent" and do not recognise "this gang as the legitimate authorities."http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/2010421133315810271.html Kyrgyz ex-president remains defiant 21 Apr 2010 Al Jazeera English 17 January 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110605163700/http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/2010421133315810271.html Jun 5, 2011 Russia consequently rejected this assertion on the grounds that he had already tendered his resignation saying "this document cannot be rejected by a verbal statement."http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/20104229921935700.html Russia rejects ex-Kyrgyz head claim – Central & South Asia Al Jazeera English 17 January 2012 He also accused the Russians of being annoyed with his allowing the Manas air base to continue operating for the Americans and NATO to supply their forces in the Afghan war.http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/20104239494248838.html Bakiyev blames Russia for overthrow – Central & South Asia Al Jazeera English 17 January 2012 On 23 April, Bakiyev backtracked on his vow to return to power, but claimed his resignation is invalid because the new government is failing to protect his family as was promised.https://www.foxnews.com/world/kyrgyzstans-ousted-president-vows-not-to-return Fox News Kyrgyzstan's ousted president vows not to return 23 April 2010 23 April 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100426065607/http://www.foxnews.com/world/2010/04/23/kyrgyzstans-ousted-president-vows-return/ 26 April 2010 live April–May events Subsequent events By 18 April, Bakiyev supporters seized a regional government office in the south of the country, after appointing their own governor, Paizullabek Rahmanov. Some 1,000 people gathered in the southwestern town's main square on 19 April, denouncing the interim government and chanting pro-Bakiyev slogans. Some of them gave out flyers calling for the former president's return to the country.April 2021 Different rallies also took place on that day in neighboring Osh and Batken provinces. In addition, the interim government's appointment of a new mayor of Kyzyl-Kiya in Batken Province sparked protests in the town. The protesters prevented an official from entering her office on 19 April.At Least Two Dead in Bishkek Clashes, Bakiev's Whereabouts Remain Unknown https://www.rferl.org/a/Clashes_In_Bishkek_As_Bakiev_Supporters_Rally_In_South_Kyrgyzstan/2017658.html Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty 19 April 2010 13 June 2010 In Bishkek, upwards of a thousand stone-throwing men rioted in Bishkek suburbs to try to seize land from ethnic Russians and Meskhetian Turks on 19 April. As a result, at least five people were killed and thirty more injured. Fresh violence challenges Kyrgyzstan's leaders Reuters AlertNet 19 April 2010 http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/LDE63I0PW.htm 13 June 2010 On 19 April, a crowd of youths tried to seize land in Mayevka and clashed with the local residents. In the ensuing riot, several houses were looted and set on fire, while gunfire was exchanged between the villagers. Many residents were forced to flee the village. Otunbayeva said the government would be "resolute in cracking down on looting, mayhem and arson and mete out severe punishment for those breaching the law." Overnight Kyrgyz riot leaves 3 dead, 28 injured China Daily 20 April 2010 http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/world/2010-04/20/content_9753816.htm 13 June 2010 She had reportedly given orders for security officers to use "deadly force" on rioters that threatened her fledgling government's grip on power. The United States Transit Center Manas was attacked by revolutionaries armed with firearms and grenades. The base itself was engaged in a stand off with 2 heavily armored personnel carriers. Intelligence received was that the local revolutionaries were going to attempt to reclaim the base and airfield should any member for the former government attempt to escape.Fred Weir Kyrgyzstan authorizes deadly force on wave of riots, looting https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Asia-South-Central/2010/0421/Kyrgyzstan-authorizes-deadly-force-on-wave-of-riots-looting The Christian Science Monitor 21 April 2010 13 June 2010 On 22 April 2010, it was announced that a constitutional referendum, in order to reduce presidential powers and "strengthen democracy", would be held on 27 June 2010; a general elections would then follow on 10 October 2010.Kyrgyzstan's new leaders set October election date https://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/8636577.stm BBC News 22 April 2010 21 June 2010 On 13 May 2010, numerous government buildings were stormed by supporters of the ex-president in Jalal-Abad, Batken and Osh, forcing the interim governor of Jalal-Abad to flee.Ex-Kyrgyz president supporters seize regional administration offices http://rianovosti.com/exsoviet/20100513/159005985.html RIA Novosti 13 May 2010 13 June 2010 On 14 May conflicting reports emerged of deaths of pro-Bakiev supporters after a conflict with interim government forces in Jalal-Abad, with pro-Bakiev groups reporting 8 dead, whilst the Kyrgyz Health Ministry reporting 65 injured, 15 of them critically with one of the critically injured dying the next day.OSCE Trans-Asian Parliamentary Forum to discuss Kyrgyzstan on Saturday http://rianovosti.com/exsoviet/20100515/159026963.html RIA Novosti 15 May 2010 13 June 2010 On 19 May 2010, pro-Bakiev supporters clashed with supporters of local Uzbek leader Kadyzhan Batyrov in the southern city of Jalal-Abad, accusing him of allowing his followers to use guns on pro-Bakiev protestors on 13 May. Fighting intensified near the University of Peoples' Friendship resulting in the deaths of at least two people and 16 further injuries. Later that day Roza Otunbayeva became the temporary president of Kyrgyzstan.At least 1 killed, 16 injured in new protests in Kyrgyzstan http://rianovosti.com/exsoviet/20100519/159075645.html Ria Novosti https://web.archive.org/web/20110715183152/http://rianovosti.com/exsoviet/20100519/159075645.html 15 July 2011 19 May 2010 dead Kyrgyzstan's Otunbayeva handed presidential authority RIA Novosti 19 May 2010 http://rianovosti.com/world/20100519/159079849.html 13 June 2010 On 31 May, Uzbekistan moved troops to its border with Kyrgyzstan due to increasing border tensions as clashes between two villages on opposite sides of the border occurred and villagers rampaged destroying roads and water pipes. Uzbek assault troops and armoured vehicles arrived on the border to prevent further clashes. Fitzpatrick Catherine A. Uzbekistan Sends Troops to the Kyrgyz Border EurasiaNet 31 May 2010 http://www.eurasianet.org/node/61187 13 June 2010 June riots 2010 South Kyrgyzstan ethnic clashes April 2021 On 9 June violence erupted in the southern city of Osh with ethnic Kyrgyz rioting, attacking minority Uzbeks and lighting their property ablaze. By the 12th the violence had spread to the city of Jalal-Abad. The spreading of the violence required the interim government led by Roza Otunbayeva to declare a state of emergency on 12 June, in an attempt to take control of the situation. Uzbekistan launched a limited troop incursion early on, but withdrew and opened its borders to Uzbek refugees. The clashes killed up to 2,000 people, mostly Uzbeks, and another 100,000 were displaced. Constitutional referendum Kyrgyzstani constitutional referendum, 2010 October election and aftermath Kyrgyzstani parliamentary election, 2010 Following the Kyrgyzstani parliamentary election, 2010, the pro-Bakiyev Ata-Zhurt party won a plurality as it campaigned to roll back the new constitution and bring Bakiyev back from exile. A provisional government was established with the following leaders at its head: Head of Provisional GovernmentOpposition formed the Government of People's Trust ru Roza OtunbayevaThe morning of new government ru Deputy of Finance Temir Sariev Deputy of Economy Almazbek Atambayev Deputy of Constitutional Reform Omurbek Tekebayev Deputy of Prosecution Bodies and Financial Police Azimbek Beknazarov (acting Prosecutor-General in 2005) Minister of Internal Affairs Bolotbek SherniyazovKyrgyz Police supported the new government ru Minister of Health Care Damira Niyaz-Aliyeva Head of National Security Service (GNSB) Keneshbek Duyshebayev"Работать тут совершенно не дают" ru International reaction Various states in the region and beyond expressed concern and called for stability in the country. International bodies like the UN, EU and the OSCE also made similar calls. The International Committee of the Red Cross expressed its deep concern about the worsening humanitarian situation in southern Kyrgyzstan and called on the Kyrgyz authorities to do everything in their power to protect their citizens, restore order and ensure respect for the rule of law.,http://www.icrc.org/Web/Eng/siteeng0.nsf/html/kyrgyzstan-news-120610 Kyrgyzstan : ICRC urges restraint as humanitarian situation worsens Icrc.org 12 June 2010 17 January 2012 18 August 2010 https://web.archive.org/web/20100818042103/http://www.icrc.org/web/eng/siteeng0.nsf/html/kyrgyzstan-news-120610 dead http://www.icrc.org/Web/Eng/siteeng0.nsf/html/kyrgyzstan-news-130610 Kyrgyzstan: authorities and emergency services overwhelmed by brutal violence in the south Icrc.org 13 June 2010 17 January 2012 States United Nations A spokesman for Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Bakiyev's departure was "an important step toward the peaceful, stable, prosperous and democratic development of the country and its good governance."Leonard Peter Kyrgyzstan's deposed president flies to Kazakhstan https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna36539795 https://web.archive.org/web/20211129160629/https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna36539795 dead 29 November 2021 NBC News 15 April 2010 en Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said he would give Bakiyev asylum under the protection of the state after Bakiyev had made an emotional appeal to the President to take at least his family if not himself.http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/201042013289607380.html Deposed Kyrgyz leader in Belarus english.aljazeera.net 1 October 2016 Japan On a message from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan the Press Secretary/Director-General for Press and Public Relations stated: "The Government of Japan expects that this agreement will facilitate the advancement of the normalization of the situation in the Kyrgyz Republic and expresses its respect for the efforts by concerned countries including the United States of America, Russia, and Kazakhstan, as well as concerned international organizations such as OSCE."http://www.mofa.go.jp/announce/announce/2010/4/0416_01.html Statement by Press Secretary on the Situation in the Kyrgyz Republic 16 April 2010 Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Kazakhstan After Bakiyev flew out of the country into exile in Kazakhstan he was to meet president Nursultan Nazarbayev for talks. This was after Kazakhstan confirmed Bakiyev's departure saying it was an important step towards preventing civil war. The step was a result of joint efforts between the two parties and Dmitry Medvedev and Barack Obama for Bakiyev to leave the country.http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/04/2010415145148592349.html Ousted leader leaves Kyrgyzstan english.aljazeera.net 1 October 2016 Russia President Medvedev said the Bakiyev regime collapsed because of corruption, reliance on clan ties and inability to solve social problems. PM Putin also promised a member of the provisional government, Almazbek Atambayev, that Russia would give $50 million in aid and loans and 25,000 tons of fuel to aid the spring planting season. Turkey February 2022 Very generic language without any source. Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan urged Kyrgyzstan to stop the violence and rebuild the stability of the nation. Turkey, which is a main ally of Kyrgyzstan due to Turkic Culture, fully supported Kyrgyzstan provisional Government. See also Day of the People's April Revolution Notes References External links Humanitarian information coverage on ReliefWeb Exploring Regime Instability and Ethnic Violence in Kyrgyzstan by Eric McGlinchey (Asia Policy, July 2011) One Year After Ethnic Riots in Kyrgyzstan: What Has Changed?, Q&A with Eric McGlinchey (National Bureau of Asian Research, June 2011) At Least 117 People Killed in Kyrgyzstan; An Estimated 80,000 Uzbeks Have Fled – video report by Democracy Now! Calm Returns, Fear Remains, In Kyrgyzstan's South – Audio report by NPR, 18 June 2010 Crisis in Kyrgyzstan https://web.archive.org/web/20101219235230/http://www.life.com/image/first/in-gallery/44471/crisis-in-kyrgyzstan 19 December 2010 – slideshow by Life magazine Category:2010s revolutions Category:Revolutions in Kyrgyzstan Category:Wars involving Kyrgyzstan Category:Attacks on legislatures in Asia Riots Kyrgyzstan Category:Osh Category:Kyrgyzstan–Russia relations Category:April 2010 in Asia