The Ministry of Tourism and Sport has commented on the report from the Supreme Audit Chamber (SAC), which identified violations in the field of sport totalling approximately 17 billion tenge.
According to Informburo.kz, the department has promised to set funding limits under the new version of the law on physical culture and sport.
"The issue of the justification for funding was among the key themes of the audit. Since June of this year, the new version of the law 'On Physical Culture and Sport' has come into force, providing a clear mechanism for determining priority sports. Limits on budgeting for professional clubs have been set, and new criteria for the distribution of funds have been introduced," the statement reads.
At the same time, the ministry commented on reports that between 2021 and 2024, over 3.5 billion tenge was allocated to bonuses for the administration of the "Directorate for the Development of Sport".
"An investigation into such matters has been ongoing since 2023. The department is cooperating with the competent authorities. A legal assessment will be presented once the inquiries are concluded," the ministry stated.
Regarding the total amount of violations, the department provided a detailed explanation.
"The amount reflected in the report relates to systemic issues of planning, control, and evaluation of the efficiency of expenditure across the entire sector. The amendments to the law on physical culture and sport adopted on 16 June are aimed, among other things, at eliminating such risks. Furthermore, a joint action plan with the SAC has been approved, covering both managerial and regulatory measures. The ministry views external audit as an important tool for increasing transparency and efficiency," the Ministry of Tourism and Sport stated.
According to the department's representatives, part of the identified violations have already been rectified during the inspection.