Tokayev’s grandnephew donates state-backed sports university after investigative report

From the report

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s 23-year-old grandnephew, Nurassyl Medeu, announced on October 17 that he would donate the Kazakh National University of Sports (KNUS) to the state, just two days after an investigative report examined his family connections and the government support received by two educational ventures he founded.

Medeu presented the decision as a voluntary act of patriotism, describing it as a gift to Kazakhstan rather than a sale, a transfer into trust management, or a move made under pressure. However, the timing has drawn attention to questions about the relationship between his businesses and the state.

In announcing the handover, Medeu said the decision was intended to benefit the country and its people. “Everything we created must serve our youth, our people, and our country,” he said, describing the contribution as a great honor.