Two Kyrgyz Ministers Leave Cabinet

Two ministers have left Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambaev's cabinet under unclear circumstances.

On April 22, the presidential press service announced the departures of Energy Minister Avtandil Kalmambetov and Social Development Minister Kylychbek Sultanov.

The press service statement said Kalmambetov was transferred, although it did not say where he would be working.

The press service also said that Sultanov had resigned but it did not give a reason.

The announcement comes days after Sultanov sharply criticized Deputy Prime Minister Kamila Talieva at a cabinet session.

Talieva handles social issues in the cabinet.

Kyrgyzstan's current government consists of a three-party coalition that includes the Ar-Namys (Dignity), Ata-Meken (Fatherland), and Social Democratic parties.

Under the Kyrgyz constitution, the president has the right to dismiss members of the government.

With reporting by KyrTAG and Interfax