Repeat parliamentary elections postponed in Kyrgyzstan
BISHKEK. Oct 22 (Interfax) - Kyrgyz lawmakers have delayed repeat parliamentary elections in the country, an Interfax correspondent reported from the parliament's session hall on Thursday.
The deputies backed in three readings simultaneously and by a majority of votes a constitutional bill which envisions suspending repeat parliamentary elections.
The bill was supported by 83 out of 120 deputies of Kyrgyz parliament.
The amendments envision suspending the effect of those clauses of the constitutional law on elections, which regulate the procedure for holding repeat parliamentary elections, until the end of constitutional reform, deputy of the Bir Bol (Stay United) faction Akylbek Japarov, who is one of those who initiated the bill, said.
It has also been proposed pursuing constitutional reform, which envisions amending the current constitution, he said.
In accordance with these amendments, the date of the parliamentary elections will be scheduled following the constitutional reform, but no later than June 1, 2021.
The explanatory notes to the bill indicate that the suspension of repeat parliamentary elections is currently due to the tense situation in the country, a reduction in the economic activities of businesses over the current complicated situation, the shrinking of budget revenue, and the acute epidemiological situation in the country.
The document says the adjusted deficit of the 2020 Kyrgyz budget and the spending on preparations for a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic exceed 36 billion som ($440 million).
Protests against the outcome of the October 4 parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan broke out in the capital of Bishkek, rapidly escalating into unrest. On October 6, the Kyrgyz Central Elections Commission (CEC) invalidated the election results. However, people taking part in rallies and assemblies began calling for a change of power in the country. Kyrgyz President Sooronbai Jeenbekov declared a state of emergency in Bishkek on October 9 and tendered his resignation on October 15. Newly appointed Prime Minister Sadyr Japarov became the country's acting president on October 16. The parliament lifted the state of emergency in Bishkek the same day.
The CEC has scheduled repeat parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan for December 20. Deputies proposed holding an early presidential election on January 10 or January 17 at Wednesday's parliamentary meeting.
Acting Kyrgyz President Japarov told reporters earlier that he intends to run in the presidential elections if the parliament endorses the relevant amendments to the legislation. In accordance with the current Kyrgyz Constitution, the acting president cannot stand in the presidential elections.