Bakiyev

The surname Bakiyev is most prominently associated with Kurmanbek Bakiyev, a Kyrgyz politician who served as the President of Kyrgyzstan from 2005 to 2010. He was born in 1949. Bakiyev came to power following the Tulip Revolution, a popular uprising that ousted President Askar Akayev. Before his presidency, Bakiyev held various government positions, including Prime Minister from 2000 to 2002. His presidency was marked by a period of political instability and shifting foreign policy, with Kyrgyzstan seeking to balance relationships with both Russia and the United States, particularly concerning the presence of the Manas air base.

Bakiyev's tenure was characterized by accusations of corruption and authoritarianism. In April 2010, widespread protests erupted in response to alleged corruption and nepotism, culminating in violent clashes and his ousting from power. He fled the country and subsequently settled in Belarus, where he has remained. His family members also held significant positions in government during his presidency. The political events surrounding Bakiyev's rise and fall had a profound impact on Kyrgyzstan's democratic development and its international relations.