Tokayev says Mangystau troops lacked equipment, orders army reform

September 27, 2026 at 06:16 PM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said military personnel in Mangystau were not provided with proper equipment and ordered a comprehensive reform of the armed forces. He announced the appointment of Aidos Myrzakhmetov as the new Minister of Defense and instructed a government commission to assess the actions of all responsible officials. The president stated that the army remains stuck in the last century and requires fundamental transformation.

Key Facts

President Tokayev said military personnel in Mangystau were not provided with proper equipment.
Aidos Myrzakhmetov was appointed as the new Minister of Defense of Kazakhstan.
A government commission headed by Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Aida Balayeva will assess the actions of all responsible officials.
Tokayev ordered a comprehensive inspection of the Ministry of Defense, covering military organization, equipment, and material and financial support.
The president instructed to carry out digital transformation of the army and replace personnel with technology where possible.

Equipment Shortfall

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev drew special attention to the safety of personnel and stated that military servicemen in Mangystau were not provided with appropriate equipment. He said the government commission must assess the actions of all officials responsible for preparing and conducting the exercise, supplying the army with necessary equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety requirements. The president warned that military personnel will be held accountable regardless of position or rank and will face strict punishment under the law.

Defense Ministry Inspection

By the president's order, a comprehensive inspection of the state of affairs in the Ministry of Defense has begun. The inspection will thoroughly examine the organization of military service, army equipment, and its material and financial support. The commission headed by Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Aida Balayeva is to identify systemic violations and determine who will be held accountable.

Army Reform

Tokayev said the incident clearly showed that the army has many shortcomings and lacks professionalism. He stated that the time has come to implement a fundamental reform of the army and that he has made personnel decisions in this regard. The president introduced Aidos Myrzakhmetov as the new Minister of Defense, noting that he is taking office at a difficult time with very high responsibility. Tokayev said the army remains stuck in the last century and the command system must be rebuilt in line with international best practices. He instructed to carry out digital transformation of the army and replace personnel with technology where possible, rejecting stereotyped solutions and false reports.