Kazakhstan's Budget Imbalance Leaves West Kazakhstan Roads in Ruins

West Kazakhstan's Road Woes Highlight Kazakhstan's Budget Imbalance West Kazakhstan continues to grapple with a severe lack of road infrastructure, a problem highlighted by Mazhilis member Abzal Kuspan. Kuspan recently criticized the government's budget allocation, arguing that it unfairly neglects the region's needs. This issue isn’t new; President Tokayev acknowledged budget problems affecting western regions as far back as 2019. Despite this, Kuspan says the situation remains dire. "The government hasn't taken the necessary steps," Kuspan stated. "I hold the government fully responsible, as it collects funds from regions and then distributes them inequitably." Kuspan's concerns are backed up by his 2023 official request to the government for a fairer distribution of budget funds. The lack of adequate road infrastructure significantly impacts the region's economic development and the daily lives of its residents. The government's response to Kuspan's criticism and the steps taken (or planned) to address the budget imbalance and improve West Kazakhstan's road network remain to be seen.