Following the political crisis undergone by Kyrgyzstan last April, which resulted in a coup d'état against President Kurmanbek Bakiyev and the rise of an interim government, ethnic conflict has finally held sway over the country. Several southern cities of Kyrgyzstan have been the scenario of severe clashes between Kyrgyz and Uzbek communities.

To date, it is calculated 171 people died and 1,762 were wounded as a result of interethnic violence. Clashes caused a wave of displacement, mainly among Uzbeks, who fled westwards to the border with Uzbekistan. This country officially registered 45,000 Uzbek refugees, although several sources confirmed 75,000 people crossed the border. The Uzbek government determined to seal borders until international humanitarian aid to properly treat refugees is received. Meanwhile, the UN special envoy Miroslav Jenca alerted the number might increase up to 100,000 refugees in the following days.

Extradition of Bakiyev's son demanded

Kyrgyzstan's interim government has accused supporters of former government of fomenting violence in the southern provinces with the aim of destabilizing the new cabinet. Kyrgyzstan has called for the UK to extradite Maxim Bakiyev's younger son, who was arrested yesterday in London under charges of funding ethnic violence.

Despite the conflict, the Kyrgyz government assured it will go ahead with the holding of a constitutional referendum on June 27.

Further information:

• EurasiaNet.org: Bishkek Asks for Russian Troops to Contain Osh Violence
• RFE/RL: UN Political Chief Calls For Kyrgyzstan Aid Corridor
• The Guardian: Kyrgyzstan demands extradition of former leader's son
• Nationalia:Ethnic tension grows in Kyrgyzstan