In the English translation of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (CC RK) on the legal resource "Әділет", community service of up to 120 years is specified for the indecent humiliation of honour and dignity. In the Kazakh and Russian versions of the same provision, 120 hours is stated.
HOW THE DISCREPANCY WAS DISCOVERED
According to the Telegram channel "HALYQSTAN", the error was noticed by lawyer Abai Uruzbayev after he was approached by a US citizen who is an investor in a large company.
According to the defence lawyer, his client does not speak Kazakh or Russian and therefore familiarised himself with the English version of the CC RK on the official legal resource. After a conflict with another person, during which he insulted him, the man saw information about the possible punishment and sought legal assistance.
WHAT IS STATED IN DIFFERENT VERSIONS
The English text of the relevant provision specifies a fine of up to 120 MCI or community service of up to 120 years.
In the Kazakh and Russian versions, the same offence refers to community service of up to 120 hours.
WHAT THE LAWYER SAID
Abai Uruzbayev reported that the client took the punishment stated in the English version seriously. According to the lawyer, he had to explain to the foreigner that it was a translation error.
The defence lawyer also noted that foreigners may use English-language texts of legislation to assess the legal conditions for working in Kazakhstan. At the same time, he believes that inaccuracies in translations of official legal acts may affect perceptions of the Kazakhstani legal system.
"If the official legal resource offers him an English text of the Criminal Code, then it too becomes part of Kazakhstan's international image. And here we have a threat of 120 years of sweeping asphalt on Mangilik El with a broom?", Uruzbayev said.
