In Ust-Kamenogorsk, the recently opened Center for Active Longevity aims to provide the older generation with opportunities to spend their free time productively while promoting a culture of active aging within society. The akim (governor) of the East Kazakhstan region, Nurymbet Saktaganov, highlights the importance of such centers, noting their role in improving both physical and mental health for elderly citizens. “Our goal is to create conditions for the older generation to not only engage in interesting activities but also to lead a healthy lifestyle and foster a sense of community,” Saktaganov stated.
As these centers begin to take shape, the broader context of social responsibility is also emerging in Kazakhstan. Recent government efforts directed towards searching for criminally acquired assets, both domestically and internationally, illustrate a significant step towards accountability. There is ongoing collaboration between the financial intelligence unit of the Agency for Financial Monitoring (AFM) and international partners, employing informal channels like GlobE, CARIN, and ARIN to locate and return stolen assets quickly. A representative of Anti-Corruption Agency, Bigaidarov, noted, “The cooperation with the AFM has already yielded insights into the relocation of part of the stolen money to accounts in foreign banks.”
In another significant development, policies for asset recovery have raised questions regarding transparency. While authorities reported that around 2 trillion tenge have been recovered over the past two years, many report that only two or three companies are responsible for this recovery. There are concerns among parliamentarians about the effectiveness of asset recovery laws and the whereabouts of unrecovered funds, urging accountability and clarity from the government. “Where are the other assets that the other oligarchs were supposed to return?” questioned Bapi, a member of the parliament, reflecting the frustrations among lawmakers.
With the ongoing construction endeavors supported by recovered funds, the government has financed the building of 89 schools across the nation, intended to accommodate almost 100,000 students. Of these, 61 new schools have already been completed, with plans for another 28 schools to be built this year to further address educational needs, as noted by Bigaidarov. This expansion of educational infrastructure aims to uplift communities, especially in rural areas, where educational resources are often significantly lacking.
Aside from social initiatives, recent reports also highlight the pressing issue of road safety, particularly concerning motorized scooter users in Kazakhstan. The city of Almaty has implemented stricter measures, as over 5,500 moped riders have been held accountable for traffic violations since the start of this year. With alarming incidents involving mopeds, including a fatal collision where a 19-year-old passenger lost her life, law enforcement agencies are taking a closer look at road safety. “The reasons for these tragedies are evident: a lack of driver discipline and disregard for traffic rules,” noted police chief Serik Shumaev, emphasizing the active measures being undertaken to prevent further accidents.
This concern over road safety comes alongside government plans to ensure improved infrastructure for all road users, including the commitment to expedite projects meant to create safe pathways for pedestrians and drivers alike. There is an urgency to address these safety concerns, especially in the wake of tragic accidents that have raised public awareness.
On the diplomatic front, Kazakhstan has taken strides to enhance international relations. A recent agreement with the Sultanate of Oman has extended the visa-free regime for Kazakh citizens, allowing them to stay in Oman for up to 30 days. Meanwhile, the Kazakh government is also discussing plans to eliminate visa requirements for citizens of other countries, bolstering tourism and international cooperation.
As the nation grapples with its past while aiming to forge a more transparent and accountable future, citizens are increasingly aware of the political dynamics at play. The transition from a super-presidential model to a more balanced governance structure is crucial. Koshakov, a notable figure in the government, remarked, “This has given a powerful impulse to all, from political parties to ordinary citizens, enhancing their participation in political life.” His comments suggest that the landscape of political engagement in Kazakhstan is changing, with new leaders emerging and greater opportunities for citizens to have their voices heard.
Significantly, Koshakov pointed out that the recent restructuring of the legislature allowed for a dramatic shift, noting that over 70% of the newly elected members of parliament are fresh faces, a stark contrast to the previous assemblies primarily composed of former officials. “The new Mazhilis has brought forth diverse representatives, providing an opportunity to reflect society’s changing needs and priorities,” he asserted.
As these various initiatives unfold, the government is also focused on handling agricultural water supply issues. Across multiple regions, measures are being taken to manage water discharge from reservoirs to cope with flood risks effectively. For instance, the Ust-Kamenogorsk reservoir is discharging 600 cubic meters of water per second. This strategic management of water resources is essential in light of climate fluctuations and agricultural demands.
Overall, Kazakhstan stands at a critical juncture, balancing the emergence of social initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its citizens with a relentless pursuit of transparency and accountability in governance. The government’s ongoing projects in education, public safety, and international relations reflect an evolving commitment to societal progress as the nation aims for a brighter, more inclusive future.
