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In a pivotal moment of Kazakhstan's history in October 1994, the Supreme Council confirmed Akezhan Kazhegeldin as Prime Minister. However, the nomination of Altynbek Sarsenbayuly as his deputy sparked a heated debate among the deputies, leading to his rejection. The question remains: who was the deputy who opposed a candidate supported by the President, and what were the reasons behind it?

A Deputy's Strong Objection

As Altynbek Sarsenbayuly approached the podium of the Supreme Council, a statement from deputy Altynshash Zhaganova immediately captured everyone's attention: "This time, the President has made a mistake." Recalling the circumstances, Zhaganova addressed the situation, stating, "Nursultan Abishevich supported your candidacy and continues to do so. This time, he erred."

In response, Altynbek Sarsenbayuly suggested that a future constitution guaranteeing freedom of speech would suffice, potentially rendering laws on the press unnecessary. However, this prediction did not materialize over time.

Reasons for Opposition

Later, when the nomination was put to a vote following a proposal by Abish Kekilbayev, Altynbek Sarsenbayuly's candidacy received 58 votes in favor and 61 against. In an interview to clarify the details of this event, Altynshash Zhaganova explained her stance.

"The President was very upset. He said, ' Alteke, what is this, he is a good man.' I replied, 'Not good, Nureke! You will see.' And my words came true. Before becoming deputies, I served as a deputy of the Almaty City Council for a year. Then, after a year, when I became a deputy of the Supreme Council, I resigned from my work there. At that time, he (Altynbek Sarsenbayuly) also became a deputy in the city. He was dismissive of people and strongly rebuffed those who spoke up. His conduct was such. His principles were different. I simply didn't like it," Zhaganova stated.

Sarsenbayuly's Perspective

Altynbek Sarsenbayuly later reflected on this event, expressing gratitude for not being appointed. "I am still grateful and thankful that I was not confirmed! During the tenure of the vice-premier who replaced me, the entire social sector collapsed. Schools were closed, hospitals shut down, and libraries disappeared. I was younger then. I cannot say that I would have firmly opposed all those misguided decisions. If I had been vice-premier at that time, the responsibility for the destruction would still be on my conscience. God protected me then. I still feel like thanking that elder sister whenever I see her," he recalled.

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