Kyrgyzstan’s parliament is preparing to elect a new speaker following a sudden leadership change.

MP Marlen Mamataliyev has been nominated for the post of Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh, the country’s parliament, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.

His candidacy was put forward by the parliamentary groups “Eldik” and “Ala-Too,” which together hold 33 seats in the 90-member legislature - signaling significant backing ahead of the vote.

The nomination comes after former Speaker Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu stepped down earlier the same day. While relinquishing the post of speaker, he will continue serving as a member of parliament.