Convicted for Corruption: Ex-Deputy Akim Known for Praising Nazarbayev Seen at Celebration

Former Deputy Akim of the Atyrau Region, Bakytgul Khamenova, was seen attending a lavish event — the wedding of the daughter of a retired high-ranking police officer, Orda.kz reports.

Although her corruption sentence entered into force in 2022, Khamenova has not yet begun serving her prison term.

Khamenova is also known for her laudatory speeches addressed to Nursultan Nazarbayev.

What Was The Conviction?

While serving as deputy akim, Khamenova accepted a bribe of 4.5 million tenge from businessman Umirtai Adamov. The payment was made in exchange for assistance in the construction of a monument to Abay.

The head of the Department of Culture, Akylbek Ryskaliyev, was also involved in the case, acting as an intermediary.

In court, Khamenova maintained her innocence:

I ask that you acquit me of the charges brought against me. I am not a criminal and will go to the end to prove my innocence, she said at the time.

The court sentenced her to seven years in prison, but suspended the sentence for three years. Her accomplices, however, have already served their terms and been released.

Legal Status 

Orda.kz attempted to reach Khamenova for comment regarding her attendance at the event, but she did not respond to calls or messages, though she was active on a messenger.

The investigative court clarified:

Considering the presence of a minor child, the court applied the provisions of Part 1 of Article 74 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and granted a three-year deferment of her sentence. During the deferment, the convicted woman will be under the supervision of the probation service. There are no restrictions on attending cultural or other public events.

In other words, Khamenova did not violate any legal restrictions by attending the celebration.

Original Author: Daniel Arturov