Kyrgyz acting PM resigns

Bishkek, Sep 1 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Kyrgyz acting Prime Minister Omurbek Babanov has tendered his resignation, the government press service said Saturday.

Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev dismissed the government Aug 24, following the break-up of the majority coalition in parliament, and entrusted the Social-Democratic Party with forming a new coalition.

Babanov said he hoped the new government will continue the reforms that "have laid the groundwork for economic growth, better state governance, minimization of state interference in the business sector, the struggle against corruption and protection of citizens' rights".

Atambayev has yet to accept Babanov's resignation.

The coalition, formed in January by Omurbek Babanov, lasted less than eight months.

Kyrgyzstan is a parliamentary republic led by the prime minister, nominated by coalitions with a parliamentary majority.

Following the 2010 elections, five parties were elected to Zhogorku Kenesha, four of which - the Social-Democratic Party, Ata Meken, Respublika and Ar Namys - formed a coalition with the Ata Zhurt party in opposition.

--IANS/RIA Novosti

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