
Kurmanbek Bakiyev's presidency, which began in 2005 after his landslide election victory, was marked by a tumultuous period of political unrest, economic instability, and allegations of corruption. His initial win with 89% of the vote reflected public hopes for reform following the Tulip Revolution, but his time in office was soon overshadowed by mounting crises.
Bakiyev’s early presidency faced accusations of failing to deliver on promises to curb presidential power, strengthen parliamentary authority, and combat corruption. By 2006, discontent led to protests in Bishkek, with opposition groups accusing Bakiyev of consolidating power and mismanaging the economy. While he made concessions by signing constitutional amendments in 2007 to reduce his authority, demands for his resignation persisted, culminating in clashes between protesters and police.
Re-elected in 2009, Bakiyev’s administration struggled with energy shortages, rising prices, and public dissatisfaction. Critics likened his governing style to regional autocrats like Vladimir Putin and Nursultan Nazarbayev but noted his lack of resources to stabilize the economy. His regime faced allegations of nepotism, as family members assumed influential positions and controlled lucrative sectors of the economy, fueling further unrest.
The tipping point came in April 2010 when widespread protests over rising energy costs and accusations of corruption led to violent clashes. Security forces opened fire on demonstrators, resulting in dozens of deaths. Facing insurmountable pressure, Bakiyev fled Kyrgyzstan and sought refuge in Belarus under the protection of President Alexander Lukashenko.
In exile, Bakiyev was sentenced in absentia to life imprisonment for his role in the killings of protesters during the 2010 uprising. Efforts by Kyrgyz authorities to extradite him from Belarus were consistently rebuffed, straining relations between the two countries. He continued to live in Belarus, reportedly receiving citizenship and maintaining a relationship with the Lukashenko government.
Bakiyev's legacy remains controversial. While some funds stolen during his tenure were recovered and returned to Kyrgyzstan, allegations of corruption, including involvement in questionable dealings with the Kumtor gold mine, have persisted. His presidency is remembered as a period of political turmoil and lost opportunities for reform.