Law enforcement authorities in Almaty have responded to a controversial interview with Kurbanali Akhmet Ishan, a self-proclaimed religious figure who claimed he had «gifted» one of his wives to a student.
The interview, published on a YouTube channel run by Kazakh journalist Janar Baisemiz, sparked widespread public backlash.
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Notably, Akhmet said his second wife had been «gifted» to him by his father-in-law and that he did not seek permission from his first wife. He also said that after a dispute, his second wife requested a divorce. According to his account, he then told her to choose one of his students, promising to arrange a marriage. He said this is what ultimately took place.
Investigation and legal assessment
Authorities said the statements drew criticism from both social media users and media professionals. The Almaty Police Department reported that it had reviewed the video and assessed its distribution.
According to police, some of the statements violate Kazakh law and could have a negative impact on public awareness and interfaith harmony.
Administrative charges filed
Officials said the city’s Department of Religious Affairs took action against the individual.
He was charged under Article 490 of Kazakhstan’s Code of Administrative Offenses for violating legislation on religious activity and was fined.
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Authorities also said the man is not affiliated with any official religious clergy.
Responsibility for distribution
Police emphasized that legal responsibility may extend beyond the speaker to those who distribute such content.
They said the author of the publication was also charged under a similar administrative provision related to the dissemination of materials containing elements of an offense.
