On April 24, Judge Aizhan Kulbayeva announced the completion of the court investigation in the case of Kuandyk Bishimbayev. Prior to this, she inquired whether the defendants' position on the charges had changed.
"I do not admit guilt in the torture part. Regarding the second episode, where I am accused of intentional murder with particular cruelty, I admit to causing injuries that led to Nukenova's death, but I do not admit to doing it intentionally," stated Kuandyk Bishimbayev.
The judge clarified with him whether he admitted guilt in causing bodily harm that inadvertently led to her death. Bishimbayev confirmed her words. The second defendant, his cousin Bakytzhan Bayzhanov, did not admit guilt entirely.
"I do not admit to concealing. Regarding failure to report, as soon as I found out, I immediately called an ambulance. I do not admit. I have guilt: I could have called for help in advance," he stated.
After hearing the defendants, the judge announced, "Under these circumstances, the court investigation is declared concluded. As required by Article 383 of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the court grants the parties time to prepare for court debates until April 29, 2024. On the 29th, the session will resume, and we will begin the court debates," declared Kulbayeva.
The case underwent 17 court sessions starting from March 27. "Debates will be held on April 29, 30, May 2, 3, and 4, if necessary. But, I believe we will manage," the judge mentioned.
During the proceedings on April 24, a clairvoyant was questioned in court, whose testimonies differed from those of the defendants Bishimbayev and Bayzhanov. Additionally, a family housekeeper testified in court.
