Licensing Surcharge Suspended after Student Protests

TALAS — Lieutenant Governor Aidar Maksat yesterday announced the suspension of the municipal licensing surcharge on independent technology startups and delivery couriers whose introduction last month set off student and courier protests in Talas.

Speaking at a meeting with business representatives in Talas, Maksat said the decision followed a review of the levy by the governorate and the municipal administration, which had concluded that it placed "a disproportionate burden on small and new enterprises". He said the licensing rules for small firms would be revised in consultation with business groups. Couriers already charged would not have to pay outstanding amounts while the suspension lasts, a municipal official said.

The announcement comes days before Tuesday's general election, in which Maksat is again Governor Erlan Toktarov's running mate on the DPI ticket. Opposition commentators described the timing as electoral; the government said the decision was the result of the review. Student groups welcomed the suspension but said they would continue to press for the release of those still held after the October protests.