By: Partial observer

Partial observer — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 07:55:27 +0000

I think the fact Kulov was styling himself as a Gandhi figure was also a bit weird – like the Indian people struggling against British imperialists, the people of Kyrgyzstan should also take up non-violent resistance. Nevertheless, I think the actions taken by the state over the past few days might just save the opposition – if the protests had been more quietly handled, they would likely have faded into an irrelevance. Now each person imprisoned will have a hundred people from their home village gathering to call for their release, and some might not even be paid!

By: ainura cholponkulova

ainura cholponkulova — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 05:26:23 +0000

Both Bakiev and Kulov still use the same games of rules: soviet-style of political struggle. The only thing our politicians learned from western democracy and skillfully use in the current political life is protests and demonstrations. However, mentality and political background remains the same. Bakiev is former “partokrat” and factory director, while Kulov is professional silovik. Given their background of communist and soviet silovik, one might argue that both Bakiev and Kulov are not be able to listen each other, constructively communicate and elaborate compromising solution. This relates to current ruling elite at large. The main dillemma in current crisis is not constitutional reforms and corruption, albeit all those issues are most important. The core challenge is inability of our old (soviet) elite to lead a country. Their knowledges, experiences, mentality, approaches and technologies tremendoulsly impeds reforms in KG. Why most educated electorate do not support both Bakiev and Kulov? Cause, there is no clear economic agenda. Where is it? Why intellectuals do not join opposition movement in their demands? Once again, no clear vision. However, many in KG understand that although Bakiev fails in moving forward reforms, he is still legitimate President. So intelligentsia is reluctant to numerous coups and upheavels as following to such path KG might repeat african states cases. But unfortunately, western definition of democracy has been distorted in our country. Yes, freedom of speech and demonstrations are good. In the meantime, each politician has to learn listening and respecting another view, finding a compromising soution, strictly following rule of law, but not double standard and not manipulating constituences, clan and entourage in his political ambitions. Therefore, international in KG are weak in facilitating the confrontation. Working with former nomenklatura with tribal mentality is very tough. Almost many of them have been trained at the Communist Party School, not at western universities. During the soviet time such trainings have been obligatory to all pary leaders and members. Can you imagen? The positive sign is that democracy is underway in KG and there should be some outputs down the line. But the path is not simple and some risks might emerge in our tired country.

Comments on: And what now Mr. Kulov?

By: Partial observer

By: ainura cholponkulova