More than 200 people arrested in Kazakhstan energy protests

95 police officers were injured at the demonstrations as Molotov cocktails were thrown at security forces.

Prime Minister Askar Mamin’s cabinet has announced its resignation but ministers will remain in their posts until a new Cabinet was formed.

The deputy premier Alikhan Smailov will take over official duties as a transitional measure.

In a video message to the country, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called on protesters not to succumb to internal and external provocations.

“Once again, I appeal to you to show prudence and not to succumb to internal and external provocations, the euphoria of rallies and permissiveness. Calls to attack premises of civilian and military agencies are absolutely illegal. This is a crime and legal punishment may follow,” Tokayev said.

“All your legitimate requests and demands will be carefully taken into account; appropriate decisions will be made. A special meeting on all these issues will be held tomorrow,” he added.

Protests broke out in Kazakhstan on Sunday after a sudden sharp increase in gas prices in which according to the Kazakh government was due to high demand and price-fixing.

The protests began in the oil town of Zhanaozen but have quickly spread to other cities in the country, including the largest city, Almaty.

In response, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev introduced a state of emergency in Mangystau District and Almaty, effective from Wednesday. The curfew is in place until 19 January. (ILKHA)