Trial of Former Diplomat Saken Mamash Begins in Astana

The main trial of former diplomat Saken Mamash has begun at the Astana Interdistrict Criminal Court. He is accused of abusing his ex-wife, Karina Gosman, Orda.kz reports.

 Karina Gosman's Lawyers requested a closed hearing, a motion supported by Gosman.

I support the petition because the case contains intimate details of our lives. I have two children, I think they will grow up and this may affect them, it will be painful for them to read about it,
 she said.

The defense argued for an open trial with media access, though Mamash asked that his photo and personal details not be published.

Judge Artur Abdykhanov granted Karina Gosman's request in part. The preparatory phase of the trial will be held in open session, while the evidentiary hearings will be closed.

The court has decided to partially grant the request of the victim. The preparatory part of the main trial will be conducted in open session, and the judicial investigation will be closed,
the judge stated. 

The final verdict will be announced in an open session, Abdykhanov added.

Mamash is charged under Article 110, Part 2 — “Torture,” which involves causing physical or mental suffering through acts of violence committed with particular cruelty or mockery, especially against individuals who are materially or otherwise dependent on the perpetrator.

In May 2024, Karina Gosman (then Mamash) returned to Kazakhstan from the UAE, where her then-husband served as an adviser at the Kazakh embassy. She alleged that he had abused her regularly over a 10-year period.

After returning, she stayed at the Qorgau crisis center in Astana with her children and sister. A criminal case was opened against Mamash on May 10, and he was removed from his diplomatic post.

On June 7, it was reported that a second case had been opened against Mamash over threats directed at Gosman, but the investigation was later closed.

In October 2024, Gosman officially divorced Mamash and resumed her maiden name.

Ahead of the preliminary hearings, she addressed Kazakhstani women in an exclusive interview with Orda.kz.

Orda.kz continues to monitor the case.

Original Author: Anastasia Prilepskaya