The Case Is Closed: Shymkent Akim Comments on Berdenov Attack

Shymkent Akim Gabit Syzdykbekov has publicly commented for the first time on the armed attack on his former deputy, Ruslan Berdenov, reports Orda.kz.

The akim rejected allegations of his involvement in the crime, which were previously voiced by Yernar Zhiembay, the man convicted of shooting Berdenov.

We're not a law enforcement agency. The court has rendered a verdict. The perpetrators have been punished. Any talk of my involvement in this is pure speculation. What could I possibly have to do with it? Of course, someone will do and say anything in self-defense. That's all there is to it. The court has made its decision, the matter is closed. There's no need to bring it up again and again,
 Syzdykbekov said at a briefing, responding to journalists’ questions.

There's been a lot of talk. For example, that the city began to flourish with his arrival. That's not true. He was just beginning his duties. You know what happened next. Everyone has a right to their own opinion,
 the akim added.

Background

The shooting took place in April near the Shymkent Akimat. At the time, Berdenov was serving as deputy akim. He was shot by his subordinate, Yernar Zhiembay, the head of LLP “Turgyn Uy Shymkent.” 

Zhiembay claimed the attack was motivated by jealousy toward his wife. During court proceedings, Zhiembay also testified that he was pressured to give false testimony against Akim Syzdykbekov.

According to him, Berdenov allegedly promised to “forgive” him if he claimed the akim had ordered the attack.

The court ultimately sentenced Zhiembay to nine years in prison. After surviving the attack, Berdenov relocated to Almaty, where he now heads the Development Center under the akim's office.

Original Author: Zarina Fayzulina