Photo: Ayazhan (https://www.pexels.com/@ayazhan-3173683) / Pexels
- 22 апр. 2026 05:00
- 23
Kazakh Celebrities Clash Over Public Issues: Artist vs. Journalist Debate
A heated debate has ignited on social media between popular singer Meruert Tussupbaeva and journalist Laila Sultanqyzy, highlighting differing approaches to tackling pressing societal issues. The controversy centers on Sultanqyzy's proposal to drug test artists, a suggestion that Tussupbaeva strongly contested.
Singer's Outcry Over Focus on Artists
Meruert Tussupbaeva, a prominent figure in the arts, voiced her strong disagreement with the journalist's initiative. She questioned why the focus remained solely on individuals in the entertainment industry, suggesting that other significant societal problems were being overlooked. Tussupbaeva directly challenged Sultanqyzy on her Instagram page, asking, "Are there no other issues in the country? What benefit does this bring to the people, Laila? Are there no other problems in our country? Are your teeth only bared at artists? First, it's artists who go to Mecca, then divorced artists, and now it's left to check their drug use? If you're so strong, why don't you raise other issues? Are there no issues beneficial to our people? Is that it? Is the only thing left to do to cover the artists' blankets?"
Journalist Defends Broader Scope
Laila Sultanqyzy responded to the criticism, clarifying that her concern extended beyond just artists to encompass all public figures who influence society. She emphasized that the discussion also touched upon the well-being of young people and children. Sultanqyzy stated, "Meruert, did you understand what was said in general? Doesn't the situation among young people and children concern you? Doesn't their health concern you? Or are they not important? The conversation was about public figures in general, and the situation in Turkey was taken as an example. About those who influence society, about the fight being comprehensive. Those whose souls and bodies and health are clean think nothing, but rather fight together. With the filth around."
Dispute Escalates with Call for Universal Testing
Unsatisfied with the explanation, Meruert Tussupbaeva reiterated her stance, arguing that if drug testing was to be implemented, it should apply to individuals across all sectors, not just the arts. "People in other sectors are as pure as water, so do only artists smoke weed? Then let everyone undergo testing completely," the singer asserted, calling for a universal approach to any proposed screening measures.
This exchange highlights a broader conversation about accountability and the role of public figures in addressing societal challenges in Kazakhstan.
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