Kyrgyz opposition leader calls for protests

BISHKEK, Mar 5 (Reuters) A former Kyrgyz prime minister heading a new opposition movement called today for peaceful protests against the Central Asian state's president and did not rule out a presidential bid if early elections were held.

Felix Kulov, who was sprung from jail to form a partnership with President Kurmanbek Bakiyev after violent protests in 2005 that ousted long-serving leader Askar Akayev, now accuses the government that he served in of corruption.

The impoverished state bordering China is home to a U S and a Russian military airbase. It is not due to hold parliamentary or presidential elections until 2010.

Kulov said he and his United Front for a Decent Future for Kyrgyzstan would use constitutional means to bring about early elections.

''Our methods are described in the constitution where one article talks about legal protests, marches and other actions that do not harm other people,'' he told a news conference.

He did not say when any protests would start.

''I will not participate in the 2010 elections,'' he said. ''If you're trying to find out whether I want to be on a ballot before that ... We'll cross that bridge when we come to it.'' He denied that any protests would lead to a repeat of the March 24, 2005 storming by demonstrators of the capital Bishkek's White House, the seat of government and the presidency.

''There can be no repeat of March 24 from our side. It is simply ruled out,'' he said. ''It's another matter if someone tries to provoke anyone, they will receive a tough rebuff.'' Kulov, who many regarded as a political prisoner during his incarceration under Akayev's rule, said early elections were needed to confirm the legitimacy of the president and a constitutional reform in December.

Having run on a joint ticket with Bakiyev in 2005 after Akayev was ousted, he served as prime minister until December when he resigned during a series of constitutional changes.

Subsequently parliament voted against his re-appointment.

REUTERS PDM HT1740