Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov expressed dissatisfaction with Almaty region governor Marat Sultangaziyev over the slow implementation of projects under the national modernization initiative, reports infohub.kz.
Bektenov noted that some regions are dragging out required procedures to secure funding. He highlighted positive progress in Atyrau, East Kazakhstan, and Pavlodar regions before turning to the Almaty region governor: "Contracts for projects in your region have not been signed to this day. What is the reason?"
Sultangaziyev replied that 10 projects worth 63.9 billion tenge are planned for the region. He said some tender procedures were canceled at the request of the prosecutor's office, and the Ministry of Finance placed two projects on a list of objects subject to funding suspension. "Despite this, tenders have been re-announced, with results expected by August 25 and September 25. All contracts will be concluded shortly, and the implementation of national project activities is under special oversight by the regional akimat," Sultangaziyev stated.
The governor's explanations failed to convince Bektenov. "Listening to you, everyone is to blame but you," the prime minister said. He reminded that the national project is being implemented without republican budget funds, utilizing long-term financing mechanisms. According to Bektenov, regions must actively employ these tools and avoid delays.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that 45 projects for the construction and reconstruction of wastewater treatment facilities worth over 800 billion tenge are planned under the national project. This will upgrade aging infrastructure, whose average depreciation now exceeds 65%.