Magerram Magerramov, a Deputy of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan and a member of the People's Party of Kazakhstan faction, has expressed dissatisfaction with the Government's response to his parliamentary inquiry regarding the introduction of additional restrictions on alcohol sales. He noted that the proposed measures are incapable of genuinely reducing the crime rate associated with alcohol consumption.

After reviewing the Government's response to the parliamentary inquiry, which addressed the issue of alcohol sales, Magerram Magerramov stated that the document's content did not meet the parliamentarians' expectations.

The Mazhilis member reminded that this initiative was sent to the Prime Minister back on January 14, 2026. The deputy particularly emphasized that the figures cited in the inquiry indicate an alarming level of alcohol-related crime.

– The statistics are disheartening. Every second murder in the country is committed while intoxicated. Every third rape occurs under the influence of alcohol. Every fourth incident involves a traffic accident or theft. More than half of domestic violence crimes are also committed while intoxicated, – Magerram Magerramov cited the data.

Based on this, the faction formulated specific proposals. The inquiry called for the introduction of mandatory digital marking, restrictions on sales locations, a ban on retail trade after 8:00 PM, a ban on alcohol sales in cafes and restaurants after 10:00 PM, as well as a complete ban on online sales. Additionally, relevant ministries were asked to develop a unified prevention program.

The Government's response arrived on February 5th. Regarding digital marking, the Government indicated that it views it as a tool to enhance the traceability of alcohol circulation and combat the illegal market but emphasized that implementation would require a phased approach.

– The introduction of mandatory digital marking for alcohol products is considered as one of the tools to strengthen the traceability of alcohol circulation and counteract the illegal market. However, the implementation of this measure requires a phased approach, taking into account the technological readiness of market participants, and the potential regulatory and financial burden on business entities, – stated the official response from the Cabinet of Ministers.

The Government also noted that a system for accounting for alcohol turnover is already in place, using accounting control marks and state information systems. Further steps will be implemented gradually, considering pilot projects and international practices.

Regarding restrictions on places and times of sale, the Government stressed that these issues are being analyzed considering law enforcement data, which indicates a correlation between the availability of alcohol and the level of crime and traffic accidents.

– When considering issues of restricting the places and times of alcohol sales, data from law enforcement practice is taken into account, indicating a direct correlation between the availability of alcohol products and the level of offenses, traffic accidents, and crimes committed in public places and in the sphere of family and domestic relations, – the document states.

It was also noted that a set of measures is being implemented to strengthen control, including age, time, and territorial restrictions, a ban on alcohol consumption in public places, as well as improving the regulatory framework governing the operation of retail outlets and entertainment venues.

After reviewing the official government response, the deputy emphasized that the document fails to address the faction's key questions.

– To put it simply, it's a collection of nice words. There is no clear and understandable answer to any of the questions raised. Everything is vague, lacking specifics, – the deputy concluded.

Nevertheless, in the opinion of the Mazhilis member, the outlined measures are insufficient. The deputy stressed that the response fails to consider a key aspect: the sale of alcohol near schools and kindergartens.

– Today, no one can guarantee that retail outlets are not selling alcoholic beverages to minors, simply because there are too many such outlets, making physical control impossible. Alcohol is the root cause of many crimes, – the deputy expressed his concern.

According to him, it is necessary to return to the previously existing norm prohibiting the sale of alcohol within a 100-meter radius of children's institutions and educational organizations.

– We also consider it important to limit the number of retail outlets selling alcohol products. To ensure comprehensive control at all stages of the alcohol product movement, the People's Party faction deems it necessary to introduce mandatory marking of alcohol products, – added Magerram Magerramov.

The deputy emphasized that the faction will push for a reconsideration of the issue, will resubmit the inquiry, and will demand concrete actions.

By Linara SAKTAGANOVA

Astana