Saule Zhubaniyazova says she led housing board only six months before fatal Almaty collapse
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Defendant Saule Zhubaniyazova told a court she led the housing association for only six months before the November 8, 2025 facade collapse in Almaty that killed paramedic Ulzana Myrzuan. Zhubaniyazova, who denies negligence, said no resident reported cracks during her tenure. Prosecutors argue a 2017 technical inspection had already flagged the need for facade repairs.
Key Facts
- The facade collapse occurred on November 8, 2025, outside building 24B on Tauelsizdik Avenue in Almaty, killing 23-year-old paramedic Ulzana Myrzuan.
- Myrzuan died on November 18 after ten days in intensive care and was posthumously awarded the Erligi Ushin medal.
- Saule Zhubaniyazova, charged under Article 254 of the Criminal Code with negligent performance of duties causing death, told the court she led the housing association for only six months before the collapse.
- The indictment states a 2017 technical inspection identified the need to repair the facade, basement, roofing, and engineering utilities.
- Six people have been recognized as victims in the case, and Zhubaniyazova denies guilt.
Defendant's Testimony
Zhubaniyazova told the court she took the post of housing association chair six months before the tragedy and did what she could within available funds. She said none of the residents reported cracks or other problems to her during those six months. She stated she had no right to enter apartments and had no thought that anything would lead to tragedy, adding that many buildings stand for 60 years. She argued she should not answer for the building's 20-year operation and the work of previous housing associations.
Prosecution and Technical Findings
Prosecutors say Zhubaniyazova knew of facade defects but did not organize necessary repair work. The indictment states a 2017 technical inspection identified the need to repair the facade, basement, roofing, and engineering utilities. A judicial construction-technical examination found facade deterioration developed gradually, with cracks and cladding damage weakening adhesion before the collapse. The accused's new lawyer demanded the judge's recusal, saying he had insufficient time to study case materials; the recusal was rejected and judge Meruert Abayeva continued the trial.
Collapse and Proceedings
The facade collapsed on November 8, 2025, near house 24B on Tauelsizdik Avenue; a ninth-floor air conditioning block fell on 23-year-old paramedic Ulzana Myrzuan, who was assisting victims. Myrzuan spent ten days in intensive care and died on November 18 without regaining consciousness. She was later posthumously awarded the Erligi Ushin medal. Six people have been recognized as victims in the criminal case, and Zhubaniyazova denies guilt under Article 254 of the Criminal Code.
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Saule Zhubaniyazova says she led housing board only six months before fatal Almaty collapse
