BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, Nov. 8 (UPI) -- After days of protests, some leading to violence, authorities in Kyrgyzstan and opposition groups have accepted a draft on a new constitution.
The two sides settled their differences over procedures for the formation of parliament, government and judicial bodies in the former Soviet republic in Central Asia, an official statement said.
Itar-Tass quoted the statement as saying parliament will begin discussion on the draft constitution after Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev signs it. Opponents have sought to limit presidential powers.
Meanwhile demonstrations by both supporters of Bakiyev's government and those opposed to it continued Wednesday in the capital Bishkek, a day after similar rallies were marred by violence and gunfire.
Bakiyev came to power in March 2005 after opposition protests brought down the government of President Askar Akayev. However, Bakiyev rule since then has been plagued by high-profile killings, a weakening economy and jockeying for control of lucrative businesses.
