Resignations Hit Aqmola Emergency Services Over Workplace Disputes

Aqmola Region Department of Emergency Situations employees are quitting en masse just before the start of the flood season. They are frustrated with being assigned tasks beyond their official duties, Orda.kz reports, citing NayzaKokshe.

Rescuers are also expressing support for Yerbol Aubakirov, the former head of the Shortandy District Emergency Department, who was recently forced to resign. In protest, the entire staff of the Shortandy Fire Department submitted their resignations.

To cover the resulting personnel shortage, firefighters from the Akkol District have been assigned to take over their duties.

The controversy gained traction after reports surfaced on social media about emergency service sergeants in Shchuchinsk being forced to repair roofs at their own expense. Shortly afterward, videos appeared online showing employees from the Zerendi District Emergency Department laying tiles.

The situation began when reports surfaced on social media about emergency sergeants in Shchuchinsk being forced to pay for roof repairs out of their own pockets. Shortly after, videos emerged online showing Zerendi District Emergency Department employees installing tiles.

In Shortandy, Aubakirov was reportedly pressured to step down after refusing to force his employees to repair heating systems with their own money.

In response to media inquiries, the regional Emergency Department stated that a commission from the Ministry, led by Vice Minister Kegen Tursynbayev, has arrived in Shortandy to investigate.

Officials assured that all circumstances are being reviewed.

According to the department’s press service, "The head of the Shortandy District Emergency Department continues to fulfill his duties, and the fire department personnel remain on duty."

The alleged threats of dismissal, which sparked discussions on social media, have not been confirmed. The Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kazakhstan remains open to dialogue and will provide further comments once the investigation is complete. The situation is under control, and all department actions are focused on an objective review of the facts and adherence to the law, stated the regional Department of Emergency Situations.

However, local journalists dispute these claims, insisting that the crisis remains unresolved.

Original Author: Aliya Askarova