The Central Bank of Kazakhstan suspended its banking operations

The Central Bank of Kazakhstan stopped all banking operations after the events in the country. It was stated that the measures were taken within the scope of anti-terrorism operations and were aimed at protecting the health of the workforce in the financial sector. Protests started in the west of Kazakhstan on the grounds that LPG price hikes and the socioeconomic situation in the country worsened as of January 2nd, spreading to other parts of the country. Clashes broke out between security forces and protesters during the demonstrations that turned into street events. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev accepted the resignation of the government, which he blames for the protests. Tokayev said "terror gangs trained outside were leading the protests" and sought help from the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organization. As the protests spread, a state of emergency (OHAL) was declared first in the capital Nur Sultan, the city of Almaty and the province of Mangistau. Then, it was announced that the state of emergency was valid in all regions of the country. The Central Bank of Kazakhstan suspended all banking operations in the country. Protesters seized Almaty Airport at some point yesterday evening. All inbound and outbound flights have been suspended. Later, Interfax reported that the airport had been retaken by the protesters. Almaty Airport has been operated by TAV Airports since April 2021. TAV's shares have increased by more than 17 percent in the last four trading days.