Kyrgyzstan President Suronbe Jinbekov has announced his resignation from the presidency.

President Jinbekov is expected to resign as nationwide protests against the president escalate.

Speaking on behalf of the nation on Thursday, President Jinbekov said, "I do not want to stay in power. Contrary to the sentiments of the people of Kyrgyzstan, I am not at all interested in governing in the blood of the people. That is why I am resigning. ”

President Jinbekov also called on Prime Minister Sadir Japarov and other political leaders to work for peace in the country.

Kyrgyzstan's recent parliamentary elections have been marred by nationwide protests. The government has deployed troops and police in major cities, including the capital, Bishkek, to maintain peace and security.

Police have already arrested hundreds of demonstrators. Kyrgyzstan, which gained independence from the former Soviet Union, is one of the poorest countries in Central Asia.