Billions in Fines for Drivers Could Be Forgiven in Kazakhstan

The Mazhilis of the Parliament has accepted and begun working on draft bills designed to forgive citizens' administrative debts and fines. Initiated by the instruction of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, this amnesty aims to significantly reduce the financial burden on citizens.

According to MP Snezhanna Imasheva, the total amount of debt to be written off is currently being calculated, but it is already estimated to be worth several billion tenge. The vast majority of these penalties—nearly 90%—were issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, mostly consisting of traffic violations. If the legislation is passed, both the primary fine amounts and their accumulated late fees (penalties) will be completely wiped out.

How the Fines Will Be Categorized

The core rule of the amnesty is clear: fines for violations that did not pose a direct threat to human life and health will be forgiven. However, those who committed dangerous violations will have to pay in full.

 Fines eligible for forgiveness: Driving without a seatbelt or using a mobile phone while driving.

 Fines NOT eligible for forgiveness: Running a red light, speeding, and driving under the influence of alcohol.

Additionally, MPs are concurrently reviewing a criminal amnesty project. This will apply to minor offenses as well as crimes of low and moderate severity. The deputies plan to fully approve the entire package of documents before the end of the current legislative session.