Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan ? Thousands of protesters demanding reform gathered in the main square in Kyrgyzstan’s capital on Saturday but dispersed peacefully after the president and prime minister addressed the crowd.

The rally in Bishkek underlined the persistent tension 13 months after a popular revolt forced longtime leader Askar Akayev into exile. About 10,000 people endured the driving rain, holding red national flags and signs saying “Down with corruption!” and “Down with thieves!”

Several dozen police patrolled the demonstration near the president and government headquarters – the site of dramatic March 2005 protests that culminated in the storming of the building.

Opposition parties and civic groups are pressing President Kurmanbek Bakiyev to follow through with promised political reforms and fight crime and corruption.