Kyrgyz Media Apply To Cover Presidential Race

BISHKEK -- Members of the Kyrgyz media have begun applying for accreditation with the Central Election Commission in order to cover this summer's presidential election campaign.

Commission member Samat Borubaev told RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service that about 125 media outlets have thus far applied for accreditation.

Borubaev said the presidential contenders will hold nationwide television debates ahead of the July 23 election.

The deadline for candidates to be nominated for the election is May 18.

Although a few people have indicated an interest in running for president, currently no one has officially been nominated by his party, though some party nominating conventions are scheduled this week.