In a remarkable development reported by Reuters, Adam Kadyrov, the 15-year-old son of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, has been appointed to a senior position in his father's bodyguard.
This appointment follows a controversial incident earlier this year, where the young Kadyrov was filmed beating a prisoner in custody.
The incident, which drew widespread condemnation, occurred in September when Ramzan Kadyrov shared a social media video. In the footage, Adam is seen punching and kicking a prisoner accused of desecrating the Koran.
Despite the backlash, including criticism from some pro-Kremlin hardliners, Ramzan Kadyrov, a staunch ally of Russian President Putin, expressed pride in his son. He lauded Adam for embodying "adult ideals of honour, dignity, and defence of his religion."
Adam Kadyrov, who turns 16 this month, has been appointed as head of the department for ensuring the security of the Chechen leader, a role that places him among the top bodyguards of Ramzan Kadyrov.
This decision has been praised by allies of the Chechen leader, who commend Adam for his courage.
Top Chechen security official Zamid Chalaev announced the appointment, while Akhmed Dudayev, Chechnya's minister for national policy, external relations, and press, celebrated the news on Telegram.
Dudayev described Adam Kadyrov as a brave, courageous patriot, and someone ready to "stand up for religion."
Additionally, the RIA agency reported that in October, Kadyrov's son was awarded the title of Hero of Chechnya. However, the press service of Kadyrov did not respond to Reuters' request for comment on these developments.
This appointment raises questions and concerns, given the young age of Adam Kadyrov and the nature of the incident that brought him into the limelight earlier this year. It marks a significant moment in the Chechen Republic, reflecting the intertwining of familial ties, political power, and security operations in the region.
