MP Bazarbek Says Public Trust in Police Has Hit Critical Level

In the Majilis, Deputy Bakytzhan Bazarbek sharply criticized Interior Minister Yerzhan Sadyonov over what he called poor performance by law enforcement agencies, Orda.kz reports.

Looking directly at the minister during his address, Bazarbek remarked:

Following the exchange, Parliament Speaker Yerlan Koshanov publicly reprimanded the deputy, reminding him that criticism should be directed at the ministry’s work, not at the minister personally.

Speaking to journalists afterward, Bazarbek admitted that his remarks were emotionally charged but maintained that his grievances were justified.

Maybe I shouldn’t have resorted to personal language. But this was a cry from the heart. The minister must understand there’s no room left for further criticism. People’s trust in the police is at a critical level. We’re already not afraid of criminals, but of the police,  he said.

The MP added that citizens, activists, and journalists routinely report violations, yet law enforcement often fails to act.

As an example, he cited uninvestigated cases of illegal land clearing in the foothills of Almaty.

I bring materials to the Prosecutor General’s Office and ask, ‘Where are the criminal cases on the mountain cuttings? Are ordinary people doing this? No — these are people from the Forbes top thirty. But the police aren’t opening any cases. This is what breeds mistrust,’ Bazarbek said.

He also recalled facing personal intimidation following his previous parliamentary inquiries, claiming that unknown individuals burned a baby stroller near his home, yet the investigation was closed without results.

Original Author: Artyom Volkov