Bangladesh, Oct. 18 -- Kazakhstans drive to become a regional leader in artificial intelligence is facing scrutiny over the business interests of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayevs great-nephew. An investigation by Radio Azattyq found that two universities founded by 23-year-old Nurassyl Medeu have received significant state support, including investments from government-owned companies and access to publicly funded facilities. The arrangements have raised questions about transparency, potential conflicts of interest, and whether political connections may have helped accelerate the entrepreneurs rise.

An ambitious AI agenda

Tokayev has made artificial intelligence central to Kazakhstans modernization strategy, declaring 2026 the “ye...