Kazakh President Kasim-Jomart Tokayev announces amnesty for participants in January protests.

“The state reduced the punishment for citizens who took part in the January incident, but did not commit a serious crime. Some of those who broke the law realized their guilt and repented of their past deeds.. I think it's better to treat them with forgiveness. Therefore, I decided to announce a one-time amnesty to the participants in the January events,” he said during a speech with a message to the people of Kazakhstan..

[see_also ids\u003d"

The President clarified that the amnesty will not apply to those involved in organizing the riots, as well as those accused of treason and attempting to overthrow the government by force..

A wave of protests rocked Kazakhstan in winter. People came out with a demand to reduce gas prices that had almost doubled, but later the protesters' demands expanded into political ones: the fight against corruption, an increase in living standards, the removal of the Nazarbayev clan from power, a complete reset of power.

Tokayev called on the help of CSTO peacekeepers and, as it was believed, strengthened Russia's influence in Kazakhstan.

[see_also ids\u003d"

However, on February 26, 2022, after the start of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine, Kazakhstan refused Russia's request to join the attack on Ukraine..

As reported, on September 1, Kazakh President Tokayev proposed a series of reforms, including snap presidential and parliamentary elections in the country..