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High-profile Trial of Former Minister Accused of Brutal Murder Begins in Kazakhstan

in News / Kazakhstan - by


Today, on April 8, 2024, at 10:00, another court session began regarding the criminal case against the former Minister of National Economy of Kazakhstan, Kuandyk Bishimbayev, who is accused of the brutal murder of his civil wife, Saltanat Nukenova. The Supreme Court of Kazakhstan is conducting an online broadcast from the courtroom.

To recap, the case of the former minister is being considered in the Specialized Interdistrict Court for Criminal Cases of the capital, with the judge appointed being the chairperson of this court, Aizhan Kulbayeva. Kuandyk Bishimbayev and his brother, Bakhytzhan Bayzhanov, are sitting in the dock.

On November 9, 2023, the former Minister of National Economy, Kuandyk Bishimbayev, was arrested on suspicion of killing his wife. The tragedy occurred at the Bau restaurant in the capital.

On January 8, 2024, it was reported that the investigation into Bishimbayev's case had been completed. Later, the Ministry of Internal Affairs revealed that in addition to the "Murder committed with particular cruelty" charge, Kuandyk Bishimbayev was also charged with "Torture".

On March 11, the first trial took place where the state prosecutor presented the investigation's version, followed by Kuandyk Bishimbayev stating his position. The main trial began on March 27, being heard by a jury.

On March 29, Saltanat Nukenova's brother shared how and when they learned about her murder. On April 1, Kuandyk Bishimbayev gave his testimony, asking for forgiveness from Saltanat Nukenova's family and stating that he is "ready to answer before the Almighty". On April 3, the former minister recounted the events of the day of Saltanat Nukenova's death.

On April 4, the lawyer representing the victim, Zhanna Urazbakova, disclosed the cause of Saltanat Nukenova's death and the conclusions reached by the forensic examination.