Abzal Kuspan stated that many wealthy men already have a "tokal," and among them are not only officials. He reminded about the tradition of "amenkerlik," where a man marries his brother's widow to support her. However, in his opinion, this practice has now turned into a "pastime for the rich," where "tokals" are young girls.
“Regardless of whether people are against it or for it, they continue this practice,” noted the deputy, suggesting that the issue be brought to public discussion.
Later in an interview with the publication Qaz365.kz, Kuspan clarified that his statements were in response to a direct question from a journalist. “As a deputy, I do not intend to raise this issue on the podium. Nevertheless, the problem of 'tokals' and children born out of wedlock does exist and requires a solution,” he added.
The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan previously emphasized that polygamy is permitted in Islam but is not mandatory, and only allowed under strict conditions. At the same time, the DUMK noted that Islam calls for respecting the laws of the country of residence. In Kazakhstan, polygamy is prohibited by law, although initiatives for its legalization have been discussed but did not receive support.
The topic of polygamy continues to provoke active discussions in the country. Recently, this issue resurfaced in connection with the memoirs of the first president of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, where he first spoke about his second family with Asel Isabayeva, who bore him two sons.
