Whatever happens, I will be in the capital: Tokayev

Whatever happens, I will be in the capital. This was stated by Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in a call to residents, marking the second time in two days he has addressed the public.

This information was reported by RIA Novosti, citing its sources. It is worth noting that President Tokayev has declared a state of emergency in the Almaty region due to the unrest that occurred last night. The corresponding decree has been published on the president’s official website.

Protests in Kazakhstan began in the early days of the new year, with residents of the cities of Zhanaozen and Aktau taking to the streets to protest against the doubling of liquid gas prices. Tokayev has instructed the creation of a commission to study the situation, which stated on January 4 that it is ready to meet the main demand of the protesters and lower gas prices.

However, the protests have spread to other cities. In Almaty on January 4, protesters clashed with security personnel, who in response deployed tear gas and stun grenades. Meanwhile, protesters are again gathering in the center of Almaty. Videos posted on social media show a group of young people, one of whom is holding a special forces shield, which was likely captured from the clashes the previous day. Some participants in the march are using special vehicles that may also belong to security forces.