Two Almaty Region Department Heads Resign Following Baganashyl Orphanage Scandal

In Almaty Region, Education Department head Saltanat Bespayeva and Internal Policy Department head Yerik Abitov have stepped down, both submitting resignation letters, Orda.kz reports.

Their departure follows a scandal in Baganashyl, where officials attempted to relocate orphans from a private children’s home — an incident that drew public backlash and the attention of the President.

According to sources, Bespayeva had no prior serious complaints and consistently fulfilled her duties. Abitov, however, put the region in an awkward position by mishandling information strategy, allowing the situation to spiral out of control and reach the presidential level.

It was noted that the two worked independently without coordination, which led them to take responsibility.

Despite rumors, regional Akim Marat Sultangaziyev remains in his position.

In July, attempts were made to forcibly move children from the orphanage to a new building in Qonayev despite repeated requests from the teenagers to remain. Earlier in the spring, Sultangaziyev had promised there would be no relocation, but failed to keep his word.

President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev intervened, halting the move and ordering the old building in the prestigious Almaty district to be renovated and transferred to the city’s balance.

Some believe the orphanage’s land may be of interest to developers.

Original Author: Islambek Dastan