OSCE Centre calls on Kyrgyzstan's political parties to engage in constructive post-election dialogue

BISHKEK, 28 October 2010 - Lilian Darii, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, today called on all parliamentary political parties in Kyrgyzstan to engage in constructive political dialogue to form a stable coalition government following the 10 October parliamentary elections.

Speaking during a roundtable meeting for political party leaders and political observers, organized by the OSCE Centre together with the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs and the International Republican Institute, Darii said such dialogue was particularly important considering the challenges ahead.

"Kyrgyzstan is facing a sensitive time, and all forces must work together to build a stable and prosperous future for all of the country's people. All political parties and movements, whetehr elected to parliament or not, should maintain dialogue on issues of national importance. The OSCE Mission is ready to continue supporting platforms for such debates," Darii said.

Emil Kaptagaev, head of Kyrgyzstan's Presidential Administration, said: "Today's new reality presents a chance to launch a new political process. This process must not be interrupted. Political pluralism must be ensured and strengthened. We must also value and reinforce our freedom of expression and civil liberties. Kyrgyzstan is on the path to democracy and should not deviate from it."

Roza Aknazarova, chairperson of the OSCE-supported non-governmental organization "Parliament of Political Parties", added: "Political parties now face new possibilities, but also new responsibilities. Political stability is a prerequisite for overall stability."

The OSCE Centre supported the meeting as part of its assistance to Kyrgyzstan's efforts to foster democratic pluralism and political dialogue.