Former Kazakh minister gets 24 years in prison for murdering wife
On Monday, former Kazakhstan economy minister Kuandyk Bishimbayev received a 24-year prison sentence for the murder of his wife, marking the conclusion of a highly publicized trial seen by many as a test of the president's commitment to advancing women's rights.
Bishimbayev, 44, was convicted of torture and murder by the court, with the proceedings broadcast live over seven weeks, signaling a stance that no elite member is exempt from legal consequences.
CCTV footage presented during the trial depicted Bishimbayev viciously assaulting his 31-year-old wife, Saltanat Nukenova, dragging her into a room where she eventually succumbed to her injuries.
Additionally, videos retrieved from Bishimbayev's phone showcased his verbal abuse and mistreatment of Nukenova in the hours leading up to her tragic demise on November 9, 2023.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who succeeded longtime leader Nursultan Nazarbayev, has emphasized the need for a more equitable society, particularly advocating for enhanced women's rights.
This case has spurred public backing for legislation criminalizing domestic violence, recently passed by parliament. Government statistics indicate that one in six Kazakh women has suffered violence from a male partner.
Throughout the trial, Bishimbayev admitted to physically assaulting his wife but claimed that some injuries were self-inflicted. He denied any intent to torture or murder her.
Bishimbayev previously served as economy minister from May to December 2016. In 2018, he was convicted of bribery and sentenced to 10 years, but due to an amnesty and parole, he spent less than three years behind bars before his release.
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