The head of a leading party running for election in Kyrgyzstan says an incoming government will likely sharply increase the rent for a U.S. air base in the country. Ak-Shumkar leader Temir Sariyev told The Associated Press on Thursday that a coalition government including his party would seek $100 million in annual rent for the Manas base, up from the current $60 million. Sariyev is widely viewed as the main contender for the influential post of finance minister should the Ak-Shumkar-supported coalition gain power after Sunday's vote. The United States last year risked losing the base, which acts as a key transportation hub for the military effort in Afghanistan, but then was allowed to retain it after agreeing to pay significantly higher rent.
