Qaraqat Äbden

Äbden began her career as an economist in private commercial firms before transitioning to public service, where she worked on tax-related issues under various Kazakh government ministries.

A member of the ruling Nur Otan party for much of her career, she held multiple positions within its structure and is currently serving as a freelance adviser to the Äkim of Astana on social issues.

[2] In 2022, Äbden was nominated as a presidential candidate by the National Alliance of Professional Social Workers, finishing third place with 2.6% of the vote in the race.

[9] On 20 Match 2016, Äbden was elected as a Nur Otan deputy for the sixth convocation of the Nur-Sultan City Mäslihat, representing the 19th electoral district which was previously held by Qairat Jauhanov.

[13][14] Her campaign focused on improving the quality of life for Kazakhstanis, advocating for a decent standard of living for families, and emphasizing that "the main wealth of the state is its people."

Her proposals included enhancing cultural values, improving education and healthcare, and bolstering social protection as pillars of societal development.

A large portion of the copies were donated to libraries in rural schools and orphanages, but the book faced criticism for allegedly promoting nationalist and sexist values.

[21] Specifically, she criticized the use of face masks, costumes, and the commercialization of Halloween, arguing that these elements conflicted with traditional Kazakh values and could erode the country's cultural identity.

Äbden believed these practices, which she saw as imported from the West, negatively influenced the younger generation and led to a disconnect from Kazakhstan's traditions.

[30] In response, law enforcement official Dina Tanshari called for the termination of Äbden’s deputy mandate, claiming that the proposal discriminated against Kazakhstan's ethnic minorities.

[31] Anas Bakkozhayev, head of the parliamentary faction of Auyl, responded to Tanshari’s petition, acknowledging her right to voice concerns and expressing openness to meeting and addressing any questions she had.