ONGOING COVERAGE OF THE REVOLUTION

Kyrgyzstan’s Presidential Campaign: Mud Already Flying
Kyrgyzstan’s presidential election campaign is in its early stages, yet accusations of impropriety on the part of the leading candidates are already flying. Brewing political antagonism could end up polarizing voters and undermine the Kyrgyz revolution’s democratization drive.

Kyrgyzstan’s Presidential Election Comes into Focus as Kulov Declares Candidacy
Kyrgyzstan’s presidential election is shaping up as a regional contest following Feliks Kulov’s formal announcement April 25 that he will seek the presidency. Kulov, viewed by some analysts as a representative of northern Kyrgyz interests, is seen as an early co-favorite to win the election, scheduled for July 10. Interim President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, the other leading contender, has southern political roots.

Akayev’s Hometown in Kyrgyzstan Remains Loyal to Former President’s Family
BY DEIRDRE TYNAN
Kemin, a village in northeastern Kyrgyzstan that is former president Askar Akayev’s hometown, remains a bastion of support for the country’s old order. But with Akayev now living in exile outside Moscow, Kemin has gone from a privileged place to a political ghost town.

Islamic Radical Group Bides Time on the Sidelines of Kyrgyzstan’s Revolution
BY ALISHER KHAMIDOV AND ALISHER SAIPOV
Islamic radicals, namely those associated with Hizb-ut-Tahrir, remain on the sidelines of Kyrgyzstan’s revolution, preoccupied with internal squabbling over the underground group’s strategy and tactics. Nevertheless, Hizb leaders remain hopeful that the revolution will ultimately lead to the expansion of the Islamic movement’s influence, especially in southern Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyz Revolution: Taking a Turn in an Unpredictable Direction
Kyrgyzstan’s revolution is veering off in an unpredictable direction. Persistent infighting and controversial political appointments are raising doubts about the provisional government’s ability to promote civil society. Already, several alarming trends are evident that, if left unaddressed by the provisional government, could create new sources of dispute and frustration among Kyrgyz citizens.

More Kyrgyz Revolution Coverage