Defense Minister Comments on Soldiers' Deaths and Mothers’ Protest

Defense Minister Dauren Kosanov commented on the recent deaths in the army and the protest held by soldiers’ mothers, speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the Senate, Orda.kz reports.

Journalists asked what measures the ministry planned to take, given that service members continue to die, with several deaths recorded each month.

The question appeared to genuinely surprise the minister.

What are you talking about? Soldiers? What are you talking about?
 the Defense Minister replied.

The events these mothers are talking about occurred between 2020 and 2023. And all the issues they raised concerned the work of investigative bodies. The investigations are being carried out by the Ministry of Internal Affairs under the supervision of the Chief Military Prosecutor’s Office. Those weren’t our cases,
 Kosanov stated.

When journalists cited the mothers’ reports of violence, hazing, sexual assault, and homicide, the minister demanded specific evidence.

Mothers have told Orda.kz about such cases. Parents of currently serving conscripts often stay silent out of fear for their children’s safety. Even after service, many who experienced abuse do not speak about it.

Speaking about the protest, Kosanov said he was open to dialogue.

Yes, we are. We communicate with them, work with commanders and psychologists. We install cameras, organize press tours — we do all that, and we invite journalists at least once a month,
 he said.

Orda.kz journalists have attended such press tours, where only exemplary barracks are shown — places where every soldier is presented as happy and satisfied with their service. Problems are not discussed.

Yet 18- and 19-year-old conscripts continue to die in military units. Investigators typically cite suicide, accidents, or meningitis.

The mothers of soldiers who were killed or injured in the Kazakh army held a protest on November 10. They demanded that investigations into the deaths and injuries be reopened, called for military reform, and asked for answers from the Ministry of Defense.

After the protest, several women were detained by riot police while standing at a bus stop. Police questioned them about violating the law.

The mothers’ concerns reached the president. Qasym-Jomart Toqayev instructed Prosecutor General Berik Asylov to review the appeals of the soldiers’ families within 12 days and verify the legality of the investigations. 

The deadline is November 22.

Original Author: Anastasia Prilepskaya