Speaker of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan Maulen Ashimbayev, on behalf of the President of Kazakhstan, attended the farewell ceremony for the statesman and public figure, outstanding poet and writer, Mukhtar Shakhanov. The funeral service, which took place at the Abai Kazakh National Opera and Ballet Theatre in Almaty, was also attended by relatives, colleagues, members of the creative intelligentsia, close friends, and numerous readers of the poet.
The Speaker of the Senate read a telegram of condolences from the President of the country, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to the family and friends of the outstanding son of the Kazakh people, the famous poet and public figure, people's writer, Kazakhstan’s Enbek Eri Mukhtar Shahanov.
"Mukhtar Shakhanov was a unique individual who dedicated his entire life to the art of words. He elevated national poetry to new heights and expanded the horizons of Russian literature and culture. As a man who sincerely cared for the fate of his native language, he was at the forefront of many important initiatives in this field. His works have been translated into many languages, and his inspired lyricism is sincerely loved by a wide readership. The bright image of Mukhtar Shakhanov, who lived a worthy life and left behind a rich literary legacy, will forever remain in our hearts," the telegram reads.
Expressing his condolences to the poet's family and friends, Maulen Ashimbayev called Mukhtar Shakhanov a figure of exceptional stature and honor. The Senate Speaker emphasized that he combined rare creative talent with an unwavering civic commitment, and that his entire life served as an example of honest and selfless service to his people.
"Mukhtar Shakhanov was not only a writer but also an outstanding public figure with a keen sense of justice and loyalty to his principles. His uncompromising fight to save the Aral Sea, his selfless defense of the status of his native language, and his active participation in restoring the historical truth about the December events became a true example of civic heroism. He stood at the origins of the revival of national traditions, including the Nauryz holiday, and made a significant contribution to strengthening our country's diplomatic ties and developing parliamentarism. Mukhtar Shakhanov's entire life exemplifies his honest dedication to his life's work and his responsibility to future generations," said Maulen Ashimbayev, emphasizing Mukhtar Shakhanov's achievements in parliamentary activity and public service.
It should be noted that Mukhtar Shakhanov died at the age of 83, leaving behind a rich creative legacy recognized by the international community and translated into dozens of languages.
(Press Office of the Senate, 74-72-27. Photo by: N.Baibullin)
