On the night of 30 October, former deputy akim of Almaty Yerzhan Babakumarov died in Astana.
As reported by MIA Kazinform, the tragedy occurred as a result of a conflict that broke out during a meeting with acquaintances. At some point, an argument erupted among those present, which escalated into a physical confrontation. As a result of the injuries inflicted, the man died. A suspect in this case has already been detained by law enforcement authorities. A criminal case has been opened into the murder.
From April to July 2019, Yerzhan Babakumarov worked as an adviser to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. From July 2019 to February 2022, he held the position of deputy akim of Almaty. Later, Babakumarov headed the Central Communications Service under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
In February 2025, it was reported that Babakumarov was detained in Astana for driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. As a result of the court proceedings, he was sentenced to 15 days of administrative arrest with deprivation of his driving licence for a period of seven years.