Freed ex-president speaks amid Kyrgyzstan tension

The embattled president of Kyrgyzstan ordered a nearly two-week state of emergency Friday in the capital in a bid to end turmoil sparked by a disputed parliamentary election as clashes between rival factions escalated and gunshots were fired at several political leaders.

Former President of Kyrgyzstan Almazbek Atambayev addressed supporters in Bishkek after current President Sooronbai Jeenbekov decreed the state of emergency.

It was due to begin from 8 p.m. Friday and last through to 8 a.m. on Oct. 21.