InfoHub Logo

The legal proceedings involving Almaskhan Akhmedzhanov, the former chief architect of Almaty, and other individuals connected to the case are ongoing. During a recent court session, defense lawyers for Akhmedzhanov requested his transfer to house arrest, citing his deteriorating health.

Defense Arguments for House Arrest

Akhmedzhanov's legal team argued that the former official has been unlawfully detained for 2 years and 8 months, exceeding the legally permissible period for his pre-trial detention. They highlighted that Akhmedzhanov is a recipient of a third-group disability status and suffers from heart failure. Furthermore, the defense stated there is no evidence to suggest he poses a flight risk or intends to obstruct the judicial process.

Other Defendants' Pleas

Lawyers representing other defendants, including Ardak Samambetov, Yerlan Zharmukhanbetov, and Almazkhan Bakirov, have called for the dismissal of the criminal case. They contend that the prosecution has failed to address previous procedural violations that led to the annulment of an earlier verdict. If the case is not dropped, the defense requested the release of their clients from pre-trial detention. It was also noted that Almazkhan Bakirov is also a third-group disability recipient requiring constant medical supervision.

Court's Decision

However, Judge Bakytzhan Bakyrbaev found no grounds to release the defendants from custody. The court announced that due to the case being presented with a new indictment, the detention period for those in custody will be recalculated starting from April 7, 2026. The judge also dismissed the arguments concerning the health conditions of Akhmedzhanov and Bakirov, stating that medical assistance can be provided even while in detention.

Outcome for Defendants

Consequently, Almaskhan Akhmedzhanov, Ardak Samambetov, Yerlan Zharmukhanbetov, and Almazkhan Bakirov will remain in custody. In contrast, Mukhanbetali Shalkarbekov and Berik Uskembaev were released on bail.

Background: Previous Verdict Overturned

The initial verdict, issued on February 17, 2025, by the first instance court, was overturned by the appellate panel on February 25, 2026. According to court documents, the reasons for the annulment included an incomplete judicial investigation and procedural irregularities. The appellate court also revoked a separate ruling by the first instance court that had ordered civil claims exceeding 6.4 billion tenge against the convicted individuals.

Original Conviction Details

On February 17, 2025, the specialized inter-district criminal court of Almaty found six defendants guilty of fraud involving land plots. Almaskhan Akhmedzhanov, in his former role as head of the city's planning and urban development department, was sentenced to 11 years in prison for aiding in large-scale fraud and abuse of official powers. Ardak Samambetov, Yerlan Zharmukhanbetov, Almazkhan Bakirov, and others received varying prison sentences.

Allegations Against Akhmedzhanov

The investigation alleged that Akhmedzhanov approved projects for residential complexes, including "Dynasty" and Jetisu Park, despite the land plots not meeting the required zoning criteria. He is accused of permitting the construction of multi-story buildings on land designated for private housing.