Kyrgyzstan “State of Emergency” Latest Update

I have dear friends in the country of Kyrgyzstan, have visited there twice to teach in their universities, and I am very concerned with the political unrest there now. Here is the latest update from ten minutes ago.

Dear Friends of Kyrgyzstan,

We are writing this letter to ask you to join us in praying for the political and social situation in Osh (The 2nd largest city in Kyrgyzstan). On June 10th a conflict began between Uzbek and Kyrgyz youth that lead into civil unrest. Two dormitories were burned down, shootings occurred, stores were robbed, and general instability has occurred.

The official reports are that 45 people have been killed, many injured, and many buildings have been destroyed as they were set on fire.The government responded quickly by imposing martial law making it illegal to go out from 6pm to 6am.There are tanks and other military machinery in the streets. The situation is still unsettled and therefore we need your prayers.

The city has been closed to all traffic. No one can enter the city and no one can leave. The road to the airport is also off limits. We have connections in the military so we will be able to better understand how the situation is developing.The city has had the gas turned off and many areas are without electricity.

We will be meeting as a crisis team to determine what next steps we need to take. Please pray that this situation can be stabilized.There is a history of tension between the Uzbek and Kyrgyz living in the Osh region. Twenty years ago a similar situation occurred between these two ethnic groups and many people lost their lives. People do not want this repeated. Pray for the youth that are easily influenced to listen to the leaders who are trying to regain order and peace.

It is the youth that have been the catalyst for this incident. We are hoping against any outside interference in the domestic political situation.The country was scheduled to have a referendum at the end of the month legitimizing the new government and constitution. There are concerns that this event was sponsored by people interested that this does not happen.

For Kyrgyzstan.
Thank You.