President’s office rejects proposal to euthanize stray animals

The Executive Office of the President of Kazakhstan has rejected a proposal prepared by members of parliament to euthanize stray animals after 15 to 60 days in captivity. The document was sent back for revision, according to Informburo, citing Gulmira Sabdenbek, deputy head of the Social and Economic Policy Department under the Executive Office of the President.

«Regarding the amendments proposed by members of parliament, the presidential administration has not supported them conceptually and has sent them back for revision. However, we are open to constructive dialogue to strengthen the current legislation,» she said.

The official also reiterated the position of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who emphasized the importance of treating animals with care and compassion. Sabdenbek highlighted that humane treatment of animals must be one of the principles that Kazakhstanis adhere to.

In November, members of parliament introduced amendments to the law on the responsible handling of animals. Specifically, the proposal suggested the euthanasia of stray cats and dogs after staying 15 to 60 days in shelters, as a measure to help authorities control the stray animal population. These initiatives sparked a public outcry among animal rights activists, who demanded more humane and transparent approaches to managing the stray animal population in Kazakhstan.