#Kazakhstan protestors have stormed and set fire to the Akimat, which is the former Presidential Palace that now serves as government offices, in #Almaty as large-scale protests ensue across the country over rising fuel prices, leading to intense clashes with authorities. (_ZhN_ on Twitter) #AtlasNewsUpdateKazakhstan
President Tokayev is standing by the decision to pour metaphorical kerosene on the literal fires created through these protests.
The president declared the use of lethal force without warning would still be utilized against demonstrators who violently protest. These clashes serve as a clear sign that economic health in Almaty is waning.
Almaty generates approximately 20% of Kazakhstan’s GDP (or $36 billion in 2010). The city accounts for above 20% of government revenues and 60% of bank credits. The nation is the most powerful economically in Central Asia and Almaty is a key financial center. It is considered to be a Beta- Global City as of the 2012 GaWC study.
