Kyrgyz President Seeks Clarity In Tekebaev Affair

Kyrgyz opposition leader Omurbek Tekebaev speaking to supporters in Bishkek this week (Courtesy Photo) BISHKEK, September 14, 2006 (RFE/RL) -- Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiev says if there was a plot to frame opposition leader Omurbek Tekebaev, then anyone involved will be punished,  RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reported.

Bakiev made the pledge before parliament, where he appeared with nearly all his cabinet members.

Lawmakers are seeking from Bakiev and other high-ranking officials clarifications on the circumstances that led to Tekebaev's arrest last week in Poland.

Tekebaev was arrested at Warsaw airport after Polish border police found heroin in his luggage. A Warsaw court eventually ordered his release.

Tekebaev has accused Kyrgyzstan's National Security Service (SNB) of planting the drugs in his luggage.

Bakiev's brother Janysh (Janybek) has been relieved of his duties of SNB first deputy chairman at his own request to help investigators clarify the circumstances that led to Tekebaev arrest.

Allegations surfaced that he could be involved in the purported plot. Janysh Bakiev has denied any wrongdoing.

(with material from AKIpress and 24.kg)