State of Emergency: Tokayev Signs Decrees

In Kazakhstan, in order to ensure public safety, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed decrees establishing a state of emergency in Almaty and Mangystau region from January 5 to 19. The protests there have escalated into riots.

Everything began after the price of liquefied gas doubled in the country's west, reaching 120 tenge per liter. Initially in Mangystau region, then in other areas, numerous rallies have taken place in the cities of Aktau, Zhanaozen, and Atyrau. In Almaty, the Republic Square was forced to close. Activists lit bonfires, and there were also attacks on police officers. Arrests have been made.

Moreover, members of the governmental commission have agreed with protesters during a meeting in Aktau that the price of liquefied gas will be lowered to 50 tenge per liter.