Some Kyrgyz opposition members began collecting signatures today for a referendum on a confederation with Russia.

Some 30 human rights and youth activists rallied today in Bishkek to demand the release of detained opposition members, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reported. Among those detained following violence at recent rallies in Kyrgyzstan are opposition leaders Omurbek Subanaliev and Omurbek Abdyrakmanov. Also being held is Adilet Aitikeev, the head of the Kanjar opposition youth movement.

Authorities in Kyrgyzstan today rejected allegations that they are persecuting the country's political opposition, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz service reports. Speaking at a news conference in Bishkek today, State Secretary Adakhan Madumarov said Kyrgyzstan's political opposition is confusing the fight against criminality with "political persecution."

A concert organized by the opposition in the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek, has brought to an end a seventh day of rallies demanding an early presidential election and constitutional reforms, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reported.

The opposition United Front for a Worthy Future is considering campaigning for President Kurmanbek Bakiev's resignation if he refuses to hold early presidential elections and to carry out constitutional reforms, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reported.

Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiev today confirmed three new government officials as part of a new compromise cabinet aimed at defusing a standoff with the opposition.

Kyrgyzstan's opposition For Reforms movement today handed a list of demands to President Kurmanbek Bakiev, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reported. The demands include a call for continued constitutional reforms and the creation of a coalition government with the participation of the opposition.