Karakat Abden Kazakhstani politician, economist and writer, deputy Date of Birth: 07.05.1974 Country: Kazakhstan

1. Early Life and Education
2. Political Career and Public Life
3. Controversial Book and Public Figure
4. Personal Life and Social Activities
5. Presidential Candidacy

Early Life and Education

Karakat Abden was born in the Korgalzhyn district of Tselinograd Oblast on May 7, 1974. Her father was a construction worker, while her mother was a school teacher. Abden excelled academically, finishing school with a gold medal and enrolling in the Faculty of Economics at the Almaty Institute of National Economy. After graduating, she began her career at the "Orda" firm in Almaty.

Political Career and Public Life

Abden's political journey began with a position at the Ministry of Finance. She rose through the ranks, becoming the head of the non-production payments division. In 2009, she became the deputy director of the National School of Public Policy and joined the ruling pro-presidential party "Nur Otan."

In 2014, Abden founded the "Kazak Kyzy" institute in Astana, a women's educational institution aimed at instilling traditional values. As a member of the Astana city council and advisor to the mayor on social issues, Abden gained notoriety for her unconventional legislative proposals and public statements.

Controversial Book and Public Figure

Abden's 2019 publication, "You are a Kazakh Woman. Be Proud!," sparked controversy. The book, which touched on topics of upbringing, family, and sexual maturity, was accused of sexism and containing offensive remarks. Abden criticized feminism and European values, arguing for the importance of traditional Kazakh culture.

Today, Abden is a prominent public figure and an active member of the National Commission on Women's and Family and Demographic Policy. She advocates for increased attention to constituents and funds infrastructure projects in rural areas.

Personal Life and Social Activities

Karakat Abden is married to Bolat Otenov, who works for the Anti-Corruption Agency. The couple has five children and supports orphans and foster children. Abden adopted a teenager named Ramazan in 2018, sharing her experiences on social media.

She maintains a healthy lifestyle and promotes physical activity. Despite her busy political career and public profile, Abden is known as a demanding leader who values innovation. She often presents herself as a people's politician, wearing traditional clothing and riding horses in campaign videos.

Presidential Candidacy

On October 7, 2022, the National Alliance of Professional Workers nominated Abden for Kazakhstan's snap presidential elections. Her platform emphasized creating a democratic society with a strong economy, improving the quality of life, and reducing regional income disparities. Abden proposed introducing cultural and moral education classes in schools.

Critics accused Abden of populism, particularly her proposals for expanded social programs, including free school meals, housing certificates for youth, and increased pensions and scholarships. She also aimed to establish Kazakhstan as a global center for ethno-tourism.