Kazakh MP calls for systemic review after Caspian Sea military deaths

September 27, 2026 at 06:50 PM2 min

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Kazakh MP Nikita Shatalov said the response to the deaths of soldiers in the Caspian Sea on September 24 must go beyond dismissals and arrests. He called for a systemic review of the Ministry of Defense and said five military officials have been detained as suspects. President Tokayev has dismissed Defense Minister Dauren Kosanov and appointed Aidos Myrzakhmetov.

Key Facts

Five Armed Forces officials have been designated suspects and placed in a temporary detention facility.
President Tokayev dismissed Defense Minister Dauren Kosanov and appointed Aidos Myrzakhmetov on September 27.
The tragedy occurred on September 24 during a combat training exercise when soldiers were swept out to sea by worsening weather and strong winds.
A commission for a comprehensive inspection of the Ministry of Defense was created by presidential order and must report first results within seven days.

MP's Call for Systemic Review

Kazakh MP Nikita Shatalov said the public demand for justice after the deaths of soldiers in the Mangystau region should not be limited to personnel decisions and the prosecution of individual officials. He argued that a systemic review of the Ministry of Defense is needed to establish the causes that could have led to the tragedy. Shatalov noted that the commission created by the President's order will assess not only discipline issues but also the effectiveness of defense spending. He said the results of the comprehensive inspection may reveal other violations, including those related to the ministry's financial activities.

Criminal Investigation and Leadership Change

Five Armed Forces officials have been designated suspects and placed in a temporary detention facility, Shatalov said. He stressed that the final assessment of each suspect's actions must be made by the court. President Tokayev dismissed Defense Minister Dauren Kosanov and appointed Aidos Myrzakhmetov on September 27. Shatalov said the new minister should focus on eliminating the systemic problems identified during the inspection. He added that ensuring the safety of military personnel and preserving their lives and health should be a top priority.