Protesters stormed the presidential compound in Kyrgyzstan on Thursday, seizing control of the seat of state power after clashing with riot police during a large opposition rally. President Askar Akayev reportedly flew to Russia. One key opposition figure, Kurmanbek Bakiyev, was at the scene, and state TV appeared to be in opposition hands — underscoring the impression that the hitherto fragmented opposition was consolidating control. Another leading opposition figure was said to have been freed from prison. Thick plumes of black smoke rose from two burning cars, apparently belonging to government officials, near the government headquarters several hours after the takeover. It was unclear how the cars were set ablaze. The tumultuous scene was the culmination of the first major rally in the capital since opposition supporters seized control of key cities and towns in the south this week to press demands that Akayev step down amid widespread allegations of fraud during parliamentary elections in the former Soviet republic. An ex-lawmaker said Kyrgyzstan's former parliament will hold an emergency session later Thursday. Akayev's whereabouts were uncertain amid conflicting reports, but the Russian news agency Interfax said he was flown to Russia by helicopter, while his family was taken to neighboring Kazakhstan.
