In March 1997, Russian border control was extended until the end of the year as authorities in Kyrgyzstan grew increasingly concerned about the growth of the illegal narcotics trade in the country. Since 1999, several groups of radical Islamic gunmen, believed to be from Uzbekistan or Tajikistan, have led raids and kidnappings from camps in Kyrgyzstan's mountains. He defeated five challengers in his bid for a third term. The election, however, was marred by allegations of fraud, diminishing Kyrgyzstan's claim to be the centerpiece of Central Asian democracy. In addition, a requirement that all candidates pass a Kirgiz language exam to appear on the ballot disqualified seven potential challengers.
Most residents speak Russian as their first language after years of Soviet rule.
See also Kyrgyzstan .