Astana Drone Show Scandal Escalates as City Officials Deny Approvals

Thousands gathered in Astana on July 5 for a drone show advertised as a spectacular display for Capital City Day. Spectators, including many families, braved traffic and long waits, expecting a festive program. Instead, they witnessed a brief performance dominated by logos and advertisements for upcoming concerts, sparking widespread criticism on social media. Many felt the event was misleadingly presented as a holiday celebration.

Project representatives later clarified that the drone show was a commercial venture, not officially tied to Capital City Day. They suggested that the advertising format was misunderstood by the audience and some media platforms. The organizers asserted that they had obtained all necessary approvals for the event.

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No decisions regarding the approval, organization, or conduct of the specified event were made. No contracts, agreements, memorandums, or other documents were signed between the Astana City Akimat and the organizers of the event.

However, the Astana Akimat stated on July 22 that they had received no notification regarding the drone show. The city administration confirmed that no decisions were made, and no documents were signed concerning the event's approval or organization. They emphasized that the show was not part of the official Capital City Day celebrations.

Under local regulations, organizers of large public events must submit a written notification, including the event program, to the executive body at least ten days prior. The Akimat indicated this procedure was not followed. An investigation is now underway to determine if the organizers violated rules for mass cultural events and advertising legislation, with a legal assessment to follow.

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Based on the results of the review, a corresponding legal assessment of these circumstances will be provided.