The Minister of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan Askarbek Yertayev has commented on calls from some Kazakh citizens for his resignation and explained why he believes leaving his post would be wrong. He also answered journalists' questions about the family of the mother courier, whose story had previously generated widespread public outcry.
WHAT THE MINISTER SAID
At a briefing following a joint session of Parliament, Askarbek Yertayev stated that he considers criticism of a minister to be a normal part of working in an open state.
He emphasised that matters of appointing and dismissing ministers fall under the competence of the country's leadership. According to the head of the ministry, he bears personal responsibility for the work of his department.
"There are currently certain tasks in the social sphere that need to be implemented. Simply resigning now would be too easy and an irresponsible step on my part," said the minister.
WHAT WAS ASKED ABOUT THE FAMILY OF THE WOMAN COURIER
Askarbek Yertayev was also asked to comment on versions circulating in society that the family of the woman courier had supposedly been forced to leave Almaty following the public outcry.
The minister referred to previously announced information from his first deputy, Yerbol Tuyakbayev, and reported that meetings had been held with the family, and employment options had been proposed jointly with the administration of the city of Almaty.
According to him, the woman was offered the opportunity to continue working in the platform employment system, and her husband was offered several vacancies in the IT sector. However, the family independently decided to return to Shymkent.
Askarbek Yertayev also noted that the ministry is in contact with the social protection department of Shymkent and is ready to provide assistance with employment should the family request it.
WHY THE QUESTIONS AROSE
The story of the woman courier generated widespread public outcry following the publication of a photograph showing her working with a small child in her arms. Later, statements by ministry representatives regarding the family's situation sparked public debate, after which calls for Askarbek Yertayev's resignation were heard.
