Kazakhstan’s former president survives an assassination attempt

Aides to former Khazakistani President Almazbek Atambayev say the former leader narrowly survived an assassination attempt.

Former President of Kyrgyzstan, Almazbek Atambayev greets his supporters during a rally in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on October 9, 2020 [Vladimir Pirogov/Reuters]

It all started in the capital’s east while Atambayev spoke to a crowd that gathered to hear him speak at Ala-Too Square over the country’s current political crisis and the death of a 19-year-old protester.

While speaking, a rival group of protesters, in favor of an opposing politician, went on the podium and started a brawl.

Crowds clashed for approximately 10 minutes forcing Atambayev and his team to flee the scene. While fleeing, shots rang out and reportedly hit Atambayev’s car.

It’s not clear if the former president was hit. All that’s known at the moment is that he’s alive and well.

By: Niza Nondo