Viktor Kharpunov

Viktor Kharpunov is a Kazakh politician who served as the mayor (aким) of Almaty from 1997 to 2005. He was known for his efforts to modernize the city, including plans to develop sports infrastructure, such as the iconic Medeu ice rink. His tenure was marked by significant urban development, although some of his proposed projects, including a retractable roof for Medeu, were ultimately not realized.