U.S. Welcomes New Kyrgyz Constitution

Bishkek residents celebrating the new constitution on November 9 (RFE/RL) November 10, 2006 -- The United States has praised Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiev's decision to sign a new constitution for his Central Asian country.

State Department spokesman Gonzalo Gallegos said the United States welcomes the peaceful, negotiated settlement of the political dispute that led to the constitution's adoption.


The constitution reduces the powers of the Kyrgyz presidency and gives parliament more control over the appointment of a government.


The document indicates Bakiev will remain in office until his five-year term expires in 2010, although it is not clear how his legal powers will be affected.


(AFP)


(AFP)

Understanding Kyrgyzstan

Understanding Kyrgyzstan

Workers preparing for celebrations of the constitutional compromise in Bishkek on November 9 (RFE/RL)

A STABLE FOUNDATION? On November 9, RFE/RL's Washington office hosted a briefing featuring RFE/RL Kyrgyz Service Director Tyntchtykbek Tchoroev and RFE/RL analyst Daniel Kimmage.


LISTEN

Listen to the complete discussion (about 80 minutes):
Real Audio Windows Media


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