Kyrgyz Leader Refuses Cabinet Resignations

At least 13 ministers submitted their resignations earlier today. Government spokeswoman Roza Daudova said the move was a response to a parliamentary resolution on April 28 that found the cabinet was not performing its job in a satisfactory manner.

The political crisis comes at a time of increasing political turbulence in Kyrgyzstan. Bakiev and Prime Minister Feliks Kulov are facing pressure for not implementing promised reforms. On April 29, thousands of protesters rallied in Bishkek to show their frustration with Bakiev and at corruption among the elite.

Also today, the European Union released a statement expressing its concern about the social and political situation in Kyrgyzstan, saying the country's democratic development is at risk.

(compiled from agency reports)