Bakiyev defiant over Kyrgyz role

Opponents and supporters of the ousted Kyrgyz president have confronted each other, in the ex-leader's southern hometown.

The clashes came after Kurmanbek Bakiyev said he is still president of the central Asian country, who is seeking refuge in Belarus.

Bakiyev loyalists rallying in Jalalabad were confronted by opponents who supported the interim government. The pro-Bakiyev rally was later dispersed, shots were heard but no casualties were reported.

Abrulsamat Soroyev, Interim Government Supporter, said, "Our main objective is to maintain friendship and calm among the Kyrgyz people. The old power is gone. The new government should be given time."

Ousted Kyrgyzstan President Kurmanbek Bakiyev makes a statement in Minsk April 21, 2010. Bakiyev said on Wednesday he remained president of the Central Asian state and called on world leaders not to recognise the interim rulers who took over after an April 7 uprising. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)