POLITICALLY PERSECUTION IN KAZAKHSTAN MONITORING 1-31 SEPTEMBER 2026

1 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Journalist Ms Zhanna Baytelova reported the removal of a number of her Facebook posts following copyright infringement notices, which she contended was arbitrary. The material affected comprised reposts of content authored by, among others, Messrs Lukpan Akhmedyarov and Raul Uporov, and Ms Aizhan Khamit. Documentary evidence provided by Ms Baytelova, including screenshots, indicates that several posts were removed on 28 and 29 August, each accompanied by a formal takedown notice citing “Copyright». ^[1]

1 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Public Foundation Legal Media Center, The Ädil Söz Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech, the MediaNet International Centre for Journalism, and the Kazakhstan International Bureau for Human Rights and the Rule of Law have raised serious concerns regarding newly introduced restrictions on journalistic access within the parliamentary estate (the Kurultai). Under these revised arrangements, media representatives are restricted to a designated press centre for all interactions with parliamentarians and are prohibited from moving through the parliamentary estate unless accompanied by an official escort. ^[2]

1 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan ‘On Amnesty in connection with the adoption of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan’ (No. 329-VIII ZRK), enacted on 1 July 2026, entered into force on 2 July 2026. It was initially anticipated that the enactment would secure the release of, or a reduction in sentence for, 34 individuals recognised as political prisoners. In the event, however, the application of the amnesty appears to have been discretionary and selective: while reportedly extending to individuals aligned with the state apparatus, those deemed political prisoners have systematically been excluded from its scope. ^[3]

1 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Journalists from Radio Azattyq (the Kazakh service of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty) observed that the parliamentary entry for Ms Dana Medeuova MP, niece of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, had been removed from the official website of the newly constituted Kazakh Parliament. Following formal representations submitted to the Central Election Commission and the Ädilet party, the profile was subsequently reinstated on the parliamentary portal. ^[4]

1 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Defence counsel Ms Alma Mussina reported a breach of her professional rights during the criminal proceedings against Mr Sanzhar Bokayev, who faces charges under Articles 190(4) and 340(3) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Ms Mussina stated that, upon attending to inspect the case file, she was informed that the documents had been transferred to the Prosecutor’s Office on the preceding day. Consequently, the defence maintains that it has been denied adequate opportunity to conduct a full inspection of the material contained in the case file. ^[5]

1 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ORAL — A peaceful protest was convened outside the local administration (akimat) by a group of security personnel deployed at state facilities, who alleged that their wages had been withheld for approximately two months.^[6]

1 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Animal welfare advocates have submitted formal representations to the regional governor (Akim), Mr Darkhan Satybaldy, concerning the recurring capture of dogs previously processed under the State’s Catch-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (CNVR) scheme. They urge the regional authority to institute a moratorium on the destruction of animals displaying clear identification of prior intervention under the scheme. ^[7]

2 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Bostandyk District Court No. 2 imposed a custodial sentence of seven and a half years on the environmental rights defender, Mr Olzhas Duisenov, pursuant to Article 189 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (misappropriation or embezzlement of entrusted property). The charges arose from the alleged misappropriation of funds allocated under a World Bank grant scheme. ^[8]

2 SEPTEMBER 2026 — SEMEY — An appeal lodged by legal counsel Ms Akbope Tuktabayeva on behalf of artist and civil society activist Mr Nurzhan Sembayev has been dismissed by the appellate panel of the regional court. Mr Sembayev was convicted on 22 July 2026 pursuant to Articles 258(1) (financing terrorist or extremist activity) and 405(2) (participation in the activities of a prohibited organisation) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, receiving a six-year custodial sentence. ^[9] ^[10] ^[11]

2 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KARAGANDY — Members of the teaching profession, comprising both former educators and serving members of the education workforce, have submitted formal representations to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. These representations register grave concern over statements attributed to the Minister of Education, Zhuldyz Suleimenova, indicating that an estimated 700 errors have been identified within school textbooks. ^[12]

2 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Formal representations have been submitted by Ms Kalimash Toishybekova to the First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump, requesting her good offices to assist in safeguarding the rights of her son Duman Mukhammedkarim. Mr Mukhammedkarim is a journalist presently serving a seven-year custodial sentence pursuant to Article 258 (financing terrorist or extremist activity) and Article 405 (participation in the activities of a prohibited organisation) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. ^[13]

2 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Formal representations have been submitted to the Prosecutor General, Mr Berik Asylov, by defence counsel, Mr Artem Askarov, requesting that the case file be remitted to the investigative authorities in order to guarantee strict adherence to procedural fairness and due process. This step is sought to enable defence counsel and the accused, civil society activist Mr Sanzhar Bokayev, to complete their review of the prosecution evidence. Mr Bokayev, remanded in custody at a facility operated by the National Security Committee (KNB), faces charges of large-scale fraud or misappropriation under Article 190(4) and the illegal felling of trees in the Baum Grove in Almaty under Article 340(3) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. ^[14]

2 SEPTEMBER 2026 — PAVLODAR — Ms Olga Voronko, a journalist with the news outlet Hronika.kz, reported that overnight the tyres of her vehicle were slashed and the bodywork was doused in brilliant green antiseptic dye (zelyonka). On the same night, the lock to the residence of the editor of a separate Pavlodar-based news website was deliberately damaged. Ms Voronko considers these actions to be directly linked to her professional journalistic activities, which recently included reporting on Mr Bekzat Orazov, former head of the Pavlodar Region Department for Defence Affairs. ^[15]

2 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ORAL — The City Court has refused an application by Mr Aslan Utepov, a civil society activist and community campaigner, to substitute the unserved portion of his custodial sentence with a non-custodial alternative. Mr Utepov is currently serving a seven-year sentence of imprisonment at Correctional Facility RU-170/2, following his conviction under Article 190(3) (fraud) and Article 367(3) (incitement to Bribery) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. ^[16]

3 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The journalist Mr Assylkhan Mamashuly reported that the Facebook account of fellow journalist Ms Dina Yelgezek had been suspended. According to Mr Mamashuly, Ms Yelgezek disputes that the action was initiated independently by Facebook. Rather, she contends that the restriction was prompted by her commentary, which expressed robust criticism of state authorities, and specifically of high-ranking public officials. ^[17]

3 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The journalist Mr Vadim Boreiko announced that the YouTube channel HYPERBOREI celebrated its seventh anniversary and would subsequently embark upon an indefinite hiatus. Consequently, no new content is currently scheduled for broadcast. ^[18]

3 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan has been seized of an application challenging the constitutional compatibility of Article 26(2)(3) of the Labour Code, which restricts certain categories of individuals from engaging in pedagogical activities. The proceedings raise the question of whether a statutory prohibition on professional practice may, in its practical effect, amount to an indefinite or lifelong ban. ^[19]

3 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Legal Media Centre Public Foundation has issued a public statement cautioning that Kazakhstan is deteriorating rapidly towards an unprecedented crisis in freedom of expression. The statement highlights ongoing criminal proceedings instituted against journalists Mr Azamat Omarov and Ms Dinara Egeubayeva, alongside foreign travel restrictions imposed upon journalist Mr Lukpan Akhmedyarov. ^[20]

3 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Elmedia has reported the repeated removal of its Instagram posts pursuant to third-party copyright infringement notifications. The affected content includes investigative coverage regarding the business activities of Mr Alexander Mashkevich, the asset holdings of the Nazarbayev family, and the conduct of the Financial Police, as well as a broadcast by Ms Gulzhan Ergaliyeva concerning an attack on her family. Elmedia is currently pursuing formal appeal mechanisms with a view to securing the immediate reinstatement of the restricted material. ^[21]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — AKMOLA Region — The court found in part for the claimant, Mr Birzhan Abdrakhmanov, Akim (head of the local municipal administration) of Akkol District, in defamation proceedings brought against Mr Shorman Iskakov, a civil society activist and environmental campaigner, for the protection of honour, dignity, and professional reputation. The proceedings arose from public statements published by Mr Iskakov on social media concerning local environmental conditions, the operations of Agro Protein LLP, and residents’ grievances regarding the storage and dispersal of poultry waste. ^[22] ^[23] ^[24] ^[25]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — In the early hours of the morning, officers of the Special Rapid Response Unit (SOBR) of the Kazakh security services conducted a forced entry into the residential premises of human rights defender Mr Alnur Ilyashev. At the time of reporting, a search of the property was understood to be ongoing, according to information provided by his brother, Mr Kanat Ilyashev. Mr Alnur Ilyashev is currently subject to a criminal undertaking not to leave his place of residence, an administrative-judicial restraint order imposed pursuant to proceedings initiated under Article 190 (fraud) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. ^[26]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KARAGANDY — Messrs Bakytzhan Zhanseitov, Bolatbek Tokmurzin, Yerlan Kenesbayev, Almas Akhmetzhanov, Toregeldy Amanzholov, Bolatbek Zenilkhan, and Aidar Baisagatov were each convicted of “mass disorder” under Article 272 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Having been remanded in custody since 2 July 2025 — a period of pre-trial detention exceeding one year — they were discharged from the court at the conclusion of the proceedings. ^[27]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — At approximately 05:00, officers reported to belong to the “Berkut” special police unit (as attested by his daughter) executed a search of the residence of the activist, Mr Marat Turymbetov, before taking him into custody and removing him from the premises. It subsequently transpired that he had been transferred to a hospital facility. Mr Turymbetov has a registered Category 1 disability and requires regular haemodialysis treatment. ^[28]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ORAL — Ms Marua Yeskendirova, a civil society campaigner, was released from pre-trial detention facility following the completion of a 50-day period of administrative detention imposed under Article 488(7) of the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Code on Administrative Offences. Upon her release, Ms Yeskendirova returned to the square adjacent to the Abai Monument, declaring her intention to resume her hunger strike. Shortly thereafter, police officers re-detained Ms Yeskendirova and transported her to a psychiatric facility, where she was subjected to a mandatory psychiatric assessment. Ms Yeskendirova refused to consent to the examination. She was released and returned to her place of residence approximately two hours later. ^[29]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ATYRAU — The court remanded the journalist Ms Olesya Vertinskaya under house arrest for a period of two months. She faces charges under Article 107 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan with the intentional infliction of medium-severity harm to health. ^[30]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — AKMOLA Region — Residents of Turgen village have submitted formal representations to the Kazakh executive and legislative authorities — specifically President, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the Regional Akim (Governor), Mr Marat Akhmetzhanov, and Member of Parliament Ms Aizhan Aimaganova — seeking intervention to secure their statutory right to withdraw from the limited liability partnership “Tamyr 2024” and to obtain the allocation of their land shares in specie. ^[31]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ATYRAU — The journalist Ms Laura Suleimenova lodged formal submissions with the Akim (Regional Governor) of the Atyrau Region, Mr Bolat Akchulakov, seeking urgent executive intervention following consecutive nocturnal surges in noxious hydrogen sulphide pollution reported by residents. According to data from the ‘AirKZ’ monitoring system, hydrogen sulphide levels in the Vostok district reached 22 µg/m³ at 01:00 on 3 September—exceeding the prescribed Maximum Permissible Concentration (MPC) by 280%. A subsequent reading at 02:00 indicated a further increase to 23.9 µg/m³, thrice the permissible threshold. ^[32]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Custodial conditions at the Special Detention Centre (spetspriyomnik) situated at 10 Lobachevsky Street are reported to be deteriorating significantly. Mr Bauyrzhan Atinbayev, a civil society campaigner subjected to 15-day period of administrative detention pursuant to Article 488(1) of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, has substantiated claims of serious deficiencies within the facility. In particular, testimony provided highlights a severe lack of adequate medical provision, including the absence of qualified nursing staff, essential pharmaceuticals, and basic infection control measures, such as ultraviolet germicidal lamps. Concerns have also been raised regarding sub-standard dietary provision, inappropriate and abusive conduct by facility personnel, and a failure on the part of the Prosecutor’s Office to exercise effective statutory oversight or intervene in respect of these matters. ^[33]

4 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Ädil Söz Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech remains deeply concerned by the progressive curtailment of media freedom in Kazakhstan. Whilst the specific circumstances vary between individual cases, their collective effect is manifest: public access to pluralistic and independent sources of information is being systematically eroded, while media practitioners are subjected to compounding duress and legal precariousness. ^[34]

5 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Ädil Söz Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech shares grave concerns regarding the treatment of environmental human rights defender, Ms Aruna Ortayeva. Following her dissemination of audio recordings concerning a non-public meeting convened by representatives of the Almaty Akimat (Municipal Administration), Ms Ortayeva was subjected to a residential search by law enforcement officials, forcibly removed to a police station, and subsequently remanded in custody for a period of 15 days’ administrative detention pursuant to Article 667(1) of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan. ^[35]

5 SEPTEMBER 2026 — AKTAU — A criminal investigation was initiated following the hospitalisation of 18-year-old conscript Yerkebulan Dosymbet, who alleged that he had been subjected to systematic physical abuse while serving at Military Unit No. 6655 in Aktobe. Mr Dosymbet commenced his compulsory military service on 3 July 2026. The competent investigative authorities are currently establishing the full circumstances of the case. ^[36]

6 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ATYRAU — The Ädil Söz Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech has obtained video evidence from the family of journalist Ms Olesya Vertinskaya depicting her unlawful detention. During the course of her arrest, police officers failed to adequately communicate the lawful grounds for their demands, and her child sustained an injury. Ms Vertinskaya currently faces prosecution under Article 107 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (intentional infliction of medium-severity harm to health). ^[37]

6 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ORAL — It has been reported that Mr Aslan Utepov, a practising lawyer and Head of the non-governmental organisation People Against Corruption, currently serving a seven-year sentence of imprisonment following his conviction under Articles 190(3) (large-scale fraud) and 367(3) (bribery on a large scale) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, was recently transferred under escort from Facility No. 27 to Facility No. 7. According to testimony provided by his wife, Mrs Ainura Utepova, the transfer was conducted without prior notice or procedural transparency. Mr Utepov was ostensibly summoned by facility personnel under the pretext of signing documentation; following his departure, prison staff instructed fellow detaining inmates to clear and pack his personal effects. At no point prior to or during the transfer was Mr Utepov informed of the re-allocation order. ^[38]

6 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Formal representations have been lodged by the Association Ecoforum of Kazakhstan with the Kazakh Ministry of Ecology, the General Prosecutor’s Office, and the Human Rights Commissioner, seeking the immediate and unconditional release of environmental human rights defender Ms Aruna Ortayeva. Ms Ortayeva was summarily subjected to 15 days’ administrative detention pursuant to Article 667(1) of the Kazakh Code of Administrative Offences for alleged failure to comply with lawful order of a law enforcement officer. The representation highlights serious concerns regarding the targeting of environmental activists and urges the Kazakh authorities to cease all acts of state-sanctioned harassment and persecution. ^[39]

6 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — A number of prominent figures within the creative industry, including the poet and commentator Mr Mukan Mamytkhan, the playwright Mr Shayakhmet Alzhanbay, and the composer Mr Kadyrgali Kobentai, submitted formal petitions to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the Prosecutor General. These representations alleged that collective management organisations (CMOs) were being subjected to severe administrative interference, and asserted that deliberate efforts were underway to transfer the core functions of independent CMOs to a state body, namely the National Institute of Intellectual Property (‘Kazpatent’). ^[40]

8 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Criminal Court convicted five activists in connection with an alleged attempt to seize the Presidential Residence (Akorda). Messrs Kaysar Ozbek and Talgat Ashirov were each handed aggregate custodial sentences of five years and six months. Messrs Askar Nurmagan, Tagay Abduali, and Duisenbek Zhashashev were each sentenced to five years’ imprisonment pursuant to Articles 179 and 272 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. ^[41]

8 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Facebook account of independent journalist Mr Miras Nurmukhanbetov has been suspended, forcing him to resort to an alternative account to maintain communications, according to reports by fellow journalist Ms Dinara Yegubayeva. ^[42]

8 SEPTEMBER 2026 — TURKISTAN — Mr Kural Seitkhanuly, a civil society activist and a journalist for the S-INFORM newspaper, was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment pursuant to Article 147 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan on charges of ‘disclosure of personal data’. The prosecution was initiated following a formal complaint made to law enforcement authorities by Ms Lazzat Assanova, a blogger and editor of the publication Aimaq Tynysy KZ. Ms Assanova alleged that Mr Seitkhanuly had unlawfully disseminated personal data pertaining to sensitive matters originating from previous years. ^[43]

8 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KARAGANDY — Residents of Tereshkova Street submitted a formal representation to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, requesting executive intervention to address local infrastructure failures, namely the installation of municipal street lighting and the construction of a safe recreational space for children. ^[44]

8 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Bureau of the Kurultai has adopted rules governing the accreditation of media representatives. Under these provisions, journalists will be required to direct inquiries to members of parliament exclusively within a designated press centre. Plans are currently being advanced to prohibit journalists from approaching parliamentarians directly elsewhere within the Parliamentary Estate. ^[45]

8 SEPTEMBER 2026 — SHYMKENT — The Court of Appeal set aside the decision of the court of first instance, which had imposed an administrative fine of 216,250 tenge on activists Mr Yermek Kuanyshbay and Ms Aziya Abiyeva. The proceedings arose under Article 489(10) of the Code of Administrative Offences, under which the activists were alleged to have participated in the activities of an unregistered public association. The court of first instance had held that steps taken to register the political party Alga, Kazakhstan! fell within the ambit of that offence. Members of the founding initiative had submitted applications for party registration on more than 20 occasions; on each occasion, the Department of Justice refused registration. ^[46]

8 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KOSTANAY — Proceedings continued in the prosecution of activist Mк Ilyas Aitzhanov, who faces charges of incitement to national discord and promotion of a cult of violence under Articles 174 and 313 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. At a prior hearing, the defence made an application to enter into a plea agreement with the prosecution; however, the court rejected the application on the grounds that the applicable statutory framework makes no provision for procedural plea agreements in cases of this nature. ^[47]

8 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — A demonstration involving approximately seven to eight individuals took place outside the municipal courthouse premises. Construction workers previously employed on the Sunkar Ski Jumping Complex sought to make further representations to senior judicial authorities regarding the acquittal of Mr Yerlan Sariyev. Mr Sariyev was indicted pursuant to Articles 189 (misappropriation or embezzlement of entrusted property) and 190 (fraud) of the Criminal Code. The underlying proceedings concerned financial irregularities and disputed disbursements arising from the construction of the Sunkar complex, a facility developed for the 2011 Asian Winter Games, which subsequently hosted events during the 2017 Winter Universiade. ^[48]

8 SEPTEMBER 2026 — AKMOLA Region — Mr Arman Shorayev was sentenced to 20 days’ administrative detention pursuant to Article 434 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Petty hooliganism). The proceedings arose from his reposting, on his personal Facebook profile, a screenshot of a digital image (‘meme’) depicting a woman against the backdrop of a burning Wildberries warehouse in the Russian Federation, accompanied by an allegedly obscene caption. The material in question was identified by law enforcement authorities during routine proactive monitoring of online content. ^[49]

9 SEPTEMBER 2026 — TALDYKORGAN — Pursuant to Article 190 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the remand in custody of Ms Batika Bilash, a member of the Atazhurt party, has been extended for a further month. A letter circulated online previously alleged that she had been coerced into dispensing with the services of her legal counsel, Mr Shynquat Baizhanov, by means of “torment and threats directed at her children”. Mr Baizhanov confirmed that he has subsequently lodged formal representations with both the Regional Prosecutor’s Office and the court, seeking a full investigation into these allegations and demanding that the investigating officer be held accountable should the claims be substantiated. ^[50]

9 SEPTEMBER 2026 — NEW YORK, NY — The Committee to Protect Journalists calls on Kazakhstan’s newly inaugurated parliament, or Kurultai, to scrap new rules that restrict journalists’ movements in the parliament building and limit their ability to question politicians. ^[51]

9 SEPTEMBER 2026 — AKMOLA Region — The management of Remand Settlement No. 4 in Stepnogorsk has on a further occasion summarily denied Mr Meirzhan Doskarayev access to political prisoner Mr Marat Zhylanbayev. Mr Doskarayev sought to visit Mr Zhylanbayev in his capacity as legal counsel, accompanied by representatives of civil society. The prison authorities purported to justify the refusal on the grounds that Mr Zhylanbayev had failed to submit a formal written request to meet with his legal adviser. Mr Zhylanbayev is currently serving a seven-year sentence of custodial imprisonment, following his conviction under Article 258(2) (financing of terrorist or extremist activity) and Article 405(2) (participation in the activities of a banned or designated organisation) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. ^[52]

9 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Kazakh authorities is moving to consolidate all channels for public representation to state bodies onto a single digital platform. Announcing the policy, Vice-President, Mr Yerlan Karin, indicated that the project aims to leverage artificial intelligence within the state’s digital infrastructure to process citizen–state communications. ^[53]

10 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Deputy Speaker of the Kurultai, Ms Daniya Yespayeva, outlined the rules governing parliamentary conduct and the disciplinary measures applicable in the event of a breach. The revised standards apply to Members both within the Parliamentary estate (including during formal proceedings) and in their conduct outside the workplace. The prescribed sanctions comprise: a formal reprimand; a requirement to deliver a public apology; deprivation of the right to speak for up to three consecutive sittings; exclusion from the proceedings of the Kurultai for up to three consecutive sittings; and a financial penalty equivalent to one day’s salary. ^[54]

10 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KYZYLORDA — Following a period of four months’ imprisonment, civil society activist Mr Kambar Zhusupov was released pursuant to an amnesty. He had previously been convicted under Article 313(1) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (dissemination of material promoting cruelty or violence) and sentenced to a one-year suspended term of imprisonment. ^[55]

10 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Civil society campaigner Ms Aliya Alipova has submitted representations to members of the Kurultai, contesting that restrictions impeding direct engagement between press representatives and parliamentarians constitute an unacceptable restraint. In her submission, Ms Alipova called for the reconsideration of prohibitions on direct access, the protection of media access to members within the parliamentary precinct, and full disclosure of the official justification underlying the restrictions. ^[56]

10 SEPTEMBER 2026 — TARAZ — The journalist Ms Aizhan Auelbekova was summoned by law enforcement authorities in the Republic of Kazakhstan following allegations of disseminating false information, an offence under Article 456-2 of the Code of Administrative Offences. The proceedings arose from a a public interest report concerning an individual who claimed to be subjected to conditions of modern slavery and unlawfully detained in the vicinity of the Otar settlement. Prior to publication, Ms Auelbekova had secured supporting evidence, including video footage, audio recordings, and geolocation data, and had formally referred the case to both the police and the prosecutor’s office to seek intervention. Notwithstanding her compliance with reporting channels and the corroborative material in her possession, she was required to attend a police station for the formal drafting of an administrative offence protocol. ^[57]

10 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Court of Cassation of the Republic of Kazakhstan has upheld the decision denying refugee status to Chechen human rights defender Mr Mansur Movlaev. In reaching its judgment, the Court concurred with the lower court’s finding that Mr Movlaev had failed to substantiate an well-founded risk of targeted persecution upon return to the Russian Federation. ^[58]

10 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Court considered an appeal brought by the civil society activist, Ms Aigul Tokpayeva, following her sentence of two years’ restriction of liberty under Article 380(3) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (concerning the use of force against a public official during a visit to the Supreme Court). The Court subsequently applied an act of amnesty, relieving her of criminal liability. ^[59]

10 SEPTEMBER 2026 — EKIBASTUZ — Mr Zhanat Zhamaliyev, a civil society activist, was convicted under Article 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan of participating in the activities of an extremist organisation following the judicial ban imposed on the public association Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan (DVK). Mr Zhamaliyev received a one-year custodial sentence in a minimum-security penal colony, alongside a three-year disqualification from engaging in socio-political activities. ^[60]

11 SEPTEMBER 2026 — SEMEY — Civil society activist Mr Yerbol Akkozha sought legal redress regarding the unlawful interference with his right to conduct a peaceful single-person protest (solo picket). Prior to initiating the demonstration, Mr Akkozha was preemptively intercepted and detained by law enforcement officers, conveyed to a local police station, and held in custody for approximately three hours. On appeal, the appellate judicial division upheld in full the first-instance decision of the Specialised Inter-District Administrative Court of the Abai Region, leaving the original ruling undisturbed. ^[61]

11 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KARAGANDY Region — Ms Asemgul Zhakupova, alongside fellow residents of the settlement of Rabochiy, has submitted a formal representation to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The public petition highlights systemic failures in municipal service provision, including an acute waste-management crisis and broader infrastructure deficits within the locality. In particular, the settlement lacks dedicated primary healthcare facilities (such as an outpatient clinic), local pharmaceutical provision, and essential financial technology services (specifically, a Kaspi payment terminal). ^[62]

11 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Ädil Söz Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech has produced an overview monitoring the situation in Kazakhstan regarding the right to freedom of expression and the freedom to receive and impart information, covering the period from 31 August to 11 September 2026. ^[63]

11 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Residents of the Sofia residential development staged a public demonstration on Sain Street in protest against persistent disruptions to domestic hot water supplies and broader municipal utility services. Demonstrators subsequently moved onto the carriageway, causing significant traffic obstruction. Contemporary footage from the scene records a substantial public gathering alongside a deployed police presence. Protesters demanded immediate remediation of the local utility infrastructure and urgent regulatory action to address severe network capacity constraints. ^[64]

11 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The appellate chamber upheld the fine of 173,000 tenge imposed on 22 April 2026 upon Ms Zhanar Sekerbayeva, co-founder of the feminist initiative Feminità, pursuant to Article 109-1 (Battery) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, finding no proper grounds on which to disturb the ruling of the court below. ^[65]

11 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ORAL — Members of the Lokomotiv association have submitted representations to the local executive authority (akimat). Approximately 400 households have, over a sustained period, sought the formal incorporation of their land within the municipal boundaries. The residents themselves have financed and undertaken the installation of essential utilities, including gas and water supplies, as well as local road infrastructure. The association is petitioning for the land to be reclassified under the designated legal status of ‘individual housing construction’. While this designation exists in principle, it currently applies to only 5 to 6 per cent of the plots in question. Consequently, the remaining landowners are required to pursue individual judicial proceedings to secure formal recognition of their status. ^[66]

11 SEPTEMBER 2026 — SHYMKENT — Civil society activist Mr Yergali Kulbayev, currently serving a four-year custodial sentence under Article 194 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Institution No. 53, submitted an application for leave to appeal on a point of law (cassation) to the prison administration in July 2026. However, prison authorities have to date failed to forward the application to the Court of Cassation. Mr Kulbayev has repeatedly instructed his legal counsel regarding this omission, expressing serious concern at the deliberate obstruction of his right of judicial appeal. ^[67]

12 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — With effect from 1 October 2026, the Republic of Kazakhstan is scheduled to launch a pilot scheme reforming the administrative arrangements governing social security provision for loss of employment. Under the proposed framework, the maximum entitlement period for unemployment benefits will be capped at three months, tiered strictly according to the the beneficiary’s period of contribution to the compulsory social insurance system: 1 month of benefit eligibility for continuous contribution of six to 12 months; 2 months of benefit eligibility for contribution of 12 to 24 months; and 3 months of benefit eligibility for insurance record exceeding 24 months. ^[68]

12 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Access to the news publication Total.kz was blocked following the editorial board’s refusal to comply with an informal directive from a state authority requiring the temporary suppression of an article concerning the Almaty SuperSki project. The piece, entitled “Shall We Turn Kok-Zhailau into the Moon?: The Almaty SuperSki Project Contravenes the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan”, was published on 12 September 2026. Shortly thereafter, a representative of the state authority approached Total.kz to request that access to the article be “temporarily restricted” [or “hidden from public view”]. Upon the editorial team’s refusal to pull the article, access to the domain was rendered inaccessible across domestic networks. ^[69]

14 SEPTEMBER 2026 — SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Protesters assembled to express solidarity with political activists Messrs Marat Zhylanbayev, Sanzhar Bokayev, and Ms Aruna Ortayeva, all of whom face ongoing targeted state persecution. Details of the demonstration were documented by US-based commentator Mr Zhanat Shamiganov. ^[70]

14 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Between July and September 2026, the independent media outlet Elmedia was subject to a concerted series of cyber attacks. These incidents exploited Facebook’s automated content-moderation and takedown mechanism, which acts upon allegations of copyright infringement. In enforcement notices issued by Meta, the purported rights-holders were cited as ‘John Wick Photography’, a spurious entity, and the fashion brand Giorgio Armani. In September, the perpetrators escalated their activity to include the misappropriation of digital identities. ^[71]

15 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Mr Mansur Movlaev, a Chechen activist and outspoken critic of the Kadyrov regime, attempted suicide while detained at a remand facility in Almaty, pending extradition to the Russian Federation. In a suicide note recovered following the incident, Mr Movlaev cited systemic procedural unfairness as the motivation for his act, writing: “Forgive me; I am tired of injustice! Neither the court nor the prosecutor’s office will listen to us!” ^[72]

15 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Mr Azamat Omarov, creator of the YouTube channel Akhual Segodnya (‘Situation Today’), convicted under Article 174 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and sentenced to three and a half years’ imprisonment, suspended, alongside a five-year ban on publishing activities, was discharged from custody in open court, following the execution of a procedural agreement. The judgment of the court observed: “In the video, Mr Omarov makes satirical remarks directed at the President and the incumbent administration, addressing matters concerning socio-economic policy and the conduct of state affairs.” ^[73]

15 SEPTEMBER 2026 — PETROPAVL — The investigative and prosecutorial authorities of the North Kazakhstan Region have demonstrated a definitive unwillingness to pursue further investigation or proceedings into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr Anatoliy Reybant, aged 25, which occurred following physical abuse by police officers. Mr Reybant succumbed to his injuries at his place of residence on 4 June 2017, three months after his detainment and mistreatment by law enforcement personnel. ^[74]

15 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Hieromonk Iakov (secular name: Vladimir Vorontsov), a former cleric of the Russian Orthodox Church, currently remanded in custody at Detention Facility No. 72 pending trial under Article 296(4) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, has been served with a revised indictment. Notably, the charge previously brought under Article 302 of the Criminal Code (concerning the organisation or maintenance of premises for the consumption of controlled substances) has been discontinued. ^[75]

15 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KARAGANDY — Ms Nadezhda Astakhova has made a formal submission to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev requesting executive intervention to safeguard her rights following a property boundary dispute. The adjacent property owner erected a substantial garage structure directly along the perimeter line. This development severely curtails natural daylight to her residential premises and obstructs fenestral views, giving rise to potential interference with her right to peaceful enjoyment of property and private life. Although the competent municipal authority (the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning) substantiated Ms Astakhova’s claim by confirming material breaches of statutory planning regulations and mandatory setback requirements, District Court No. 2 subsequently found in favour of the the neighbour. Having exhausted standard judicial recourse and citing a breakdown in public confidence in the judicial process, Ms Astakhova has appealed to the Executive to enforce statutory compliance and uphold the rule of law. ^[76]

16 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Criminal proceedings have commenced before the Medeu District Court in the prosecution of Hieromonk Iakov (secular name: Vladimir Vorontsov), a former cleric of the Russian Orthodox Church known for his vocal opposition to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Mr Vorontsov has been charged under Article 296 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan («Unlawful manufacture or processing of narcotic drugs without intent to sell”). The trial judge granted a prosecution application to conduct the hearing in camera, citing oral submissions that witnesses harboured fears for their safety. Following the decision to exclude the public and independent observers from the courtroom, Mr Vorontsov declared his intention to enter into a hunger strike by way of protest. ^[77]

16 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Provisions governing the accreditation of foreign media bureaux are subject to proposed amendment. The draft order published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan indicates that the proposed measure is designed to standardise and streamline accreditation procedures with the Ministry in accordance with prevailing international practice. The Ministry characterises the draft instrument as predominantly administrative and procedural in character. ^[78]

17 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — A press conference convened by campaigners opposing the commercial development of the Kok-Zhailau Plateau was disrupted by an attempt by law enforcement officers to compel the attendance of environmental defender Ms Saltanat Tashimova at a police station for interview as a witness in connection with proceedings against fellow advocate, Ms Aruna Ortayeva. Two officers in plain clothes sought forcibly to remove Ms Tashimova from the venue. Despite failing to produce a valid witness summons, the officers insisted that she accompany them to the ground level, where they alleged the required documentation would be served. Upon becoming aware that their conduct was being recorded, the officers demanded the immediate cessation of filming and instructed that all video footage be deleted. ^[79]

18 SEPTEMBER 2026 — SHYMKENT — In the case of Ms Diana Mukhametova, a single mother with four dependent children, the court returned findings of guilt across three administrative offences under the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan: article 434(1) (petty hooliganism), imposing a fine of 86,500 tenge; article 667(1) (failing to comply with a lawful order of a police officer), incurring a fine of 90,825 tenge; and article 456-2(3) (dissemination of false information), in respect of which a further fine of 86,500 tenge was levied. ^[80]

18 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Ädil Söz Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech has produced an overview monitoring the situation in Kazakhstan regarding the right to freedom of expression and the freedom to receive and impart information, covering the period from 11 to 18 September 2026. ^[81]

18 SEPTEMBER 2026 — JETISU Region — In respect of Ms Zhamilya Burabayeva, proceedings were instituted by Ms Raushangul Ospanova, a member of the Panfilov District Maslikhat (local council), under Article 73-3(2) of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The complaint related to a video published on TikTok [or Instagram] on 6 August 2026, which was alleged to have damaged the complainant’s honour, dignity, and professional reputation. Upon examination of the case file, the Zharkent District Court dismissed the proceedings on the ground that the material elements of an administrative offence had not been established. ^[82]

18 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Civil society advocate Mr Sanjar Bokayev was transferred from Almaty to Astana without advance notice to his legal team. Defence counsel alerted to the transfer upon attending the National Security Committee (KNB) pre-trial detention facility to consult with their client. Mr Bokayev is remanded in custody facing prosecution under Articles 190(4) and 340(3) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Mr Bokayev’s videographer, Mr Ulan Nusipkozha, was subjected to a corresponding unnotified transfer. ^[83]

18 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Court of Appeal of Almaty City has upheld the decision to remand in custody Mr Marat Turymbetov, a civil society activist and socio-political commentator. Mr Turymbetov was initially detained on 4 September on suspicion of fraud pursuant to Article 190 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Legal counsel for the defence, Ms Ainara Aidarkhanova, confirmed the ruling, noting that Mr Turymbetov remains in pre-trial detention despite holding a registered Group I disability. ^[84]

18 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Tolganai, the wife of Mr Ulan Nusipkozha, who is being held on remand in a pre-trial detention centre on charges under Articles 340(3) and 190(4) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, reported: ‘According to unconfirmed information, Ulan was also urgently transferred to Pre-Trial Detention Centre No. 64 in Astana at the request of the Department of Economic Investigations for Astana, without notifying me in my capacity as a public defender or his lawyer, S. Kim. Our lawyer has applied to the Almaly District Court for official information concerning Ulan’s transfer.’ ^[85]

19 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Hieromonk Iakov (secular name: Vladimir Vorontsov), a former cleric of the Russian Orthodox Church, alleged that he has been subjected to systemic intimidation and administrative coercion by prison authorities. Following his notification of his intention to embark on a hunger strike, facility administration reportedly threatened him with placement in solitary confinement. Mr Vorontsov has been remanded in custody for seven months at Remand Prison No. 72 under Article 296 of the Kazakh Criminal Code (Unlawful manufacture or processing of narcotic drugs without intent to sell). ^[86]

19 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ZHANAOZEN — Employees of Teskom Ozen LLP recorded a joint video appeal addressed to its Director General, Mr Kuat Anuar. They demanded the restoration of the 7-days-on/7-days-off work schedule, higher wages and payment of social benefits in full. Despite pressure from the authorities, workers’ protests in Zhanaozen continue. Workers remain willing to speak openly about their rights and demand decent working conditions. ^[87]

19 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Minister of Internal Affairs Mr Yerzhan Sadenov proposed introducing a ban on writing or drawing on public buildings and structures and providing for administrative liability for violations. ^[88]

21 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KARAGANDY — Ms Yekaterina Ibatova and other residents of the Respublika residential complex recorded a video appeal seeking assistance from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in securing a complete ban on hookah smoking in the building. ^[89]

21 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Purchasers of apartments in the Mardan residential complex went to the city akimat (local executive authority) and recorded a video appeal calling on the city akim to resolve the matter with the developer. More than 300 people have been affected. Asyl-Nur Qurylys sold apartments without the requisite permits. Purchasers had been promised that the building would be completed but ultimately lost almost KZT 4 billion and were left without homes. ^[90]

21 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Former Minister of Education Mr Gani Beisembaev and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Murat Nurtleu brought a civil claim against Ms Gulnara Bazhkenova, the former editor-in-chief of the ORDA publication, seeking KZT 20 million in damages for defamation. Ms Bazhkenova is subject to proceedings under Articles 274, 214(2) and 189(4) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and has received an eight-year prison sentence, with its execution deferred for two years. In July, the court classified the publication in question as an offence under Article 73-3(2) of the Code of Administrative Offences and fined Ms Bazhkenova KZT 700,000. ^[91]

21 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Department of Internal Policy of the city akimat received 1,481 submissions between 1 January and 1 September 2026. Of these, 256 concerned the holding of peaceful rallies and pickets, representing 17.3% of the total. A further 77 submissions concerned engagement with the non-governmental sector, representing 5.2%, while 61 concerned media coverage. The Department’s report stated: ‘All submissions received are examined to determine whether they contain information indicating possible corruption offences by Department employees. No corruption risks associated with the implementation of other matters have been identified.’ ^[92]

21 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — A press conference was held concerning the trial in Taldykorgan of Mr Zhakipbek Ormanov and eight other Muslims, who are charged under Article 405(2) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The defendants are accused of belonging to the banned organisation Jamaat Tablighi. Defence lawyer Mr Agisbek Tulegenov called for the case to be examined carefully. ^[93].

22 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KOSTANAY — Mr Ilyas Aitzhanov was sentenced to two years and six months’ imprisonment in a medium-security penal institution under Article 174(1) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, concerning the incitement of discord, and Article 313, concerning the promotion of a cult of cruelty and violence. The activist had expressed evaluative opinions concerning the Russia–Ukraine conflict, including negative assessments of individuals who support Russia. ^[94]

22 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Under the legislative proposals under consideration, online platforms operating in Kazakhstan would be subject to a statutory requirement to implement age-verification mechanisms, thereby prohibiting the registration of individuals under the age of 16. Messaging services are expressly exempted from the scope of this restriction. Furthermore, the proposals contemplate bringing the use of obscene language on social media platforms within the statutory definition of petty hooliganism, rendering such conduct subject to administrative penalties. ^[95]

22 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — A press conference at the Kazakhstan International Bureau for Human Rights and the Rule of Law included an appeal to the Presidential Administration and the Prosecutor General concerning the situation of journalist Mr Duman Mukhamedkarim. Lawyer Mr Galym Nurpeisov stated: ‘I call for an investigation into the circumstances of what happened, the adoption of urgent measures to preserve his life, the provision of safeguards for his safety and access to medical assistance, and an objective legal assessment of the actions of the officials concerned.’ ^[96]

22 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The appellate court found no grounds to amend the judgment delivered by the Bostandyk District Criminal Court on 18 August 2026 in the case of Ms Gulnara Bazhkenova, who is subject to proceedings under Articles 189, 214 and 274 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and has received an eight-year prison sentence, with its execution deferred for two years. The appellate court upheld the judgment without amendment. Ms Bazhkenova identified publications which, she maintained, contained no knowingly false information. She also stated that she ‘did not misappropriate money belonging to the limited liability partnership; on the contrary, I invested money’. ^[97]

22 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KYZYLORDA — The father of journalist Mr Duman Mukhammedkarim, Mr Almaz Tilepov, stated at a press conference at the Kazakhstan International Bureau for Human Rights and the Rule of Law that his son had attempted to take his own life twice while held in a punishment cell in Kyzylorda. Mr Mukhammedkarim is serving a seven-year prison sentence under Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In response, his father called for an investigation into the conduct of staff at the penal institution and for measures to be taken to prevent a further suicide attempt. ^[98]

22 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The court considered the appeal lodged in the case of lawyer Mr Adiletkhan Moldakhan, who was sentenced to two years and six months’ imprisonment under Article 272 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and prohibited from engaging in public activities for five years. The court dismissed the appeal and upheld the first-instance judgment. ^[99]

22 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ATYRAU — Lawyer Mr Nurlan Zholbolov reported what he described as an ‘established fact’ of audio recordings being made of confidential consultations between lawyers and their clients at Institution No. 75 in Atyrau. He called for an investigation to establish whether such recordings had been made, the period over which any recording had taken place, the number of conversations that might have been recorded, who had access to the recordings, and whether they could have been disclosed to or used by state authorities. ^[100]

23 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Lawyer Mr Artem Askarov reported that ‘in the case of Mr Sanzhar Bokaev, inexplicable things are happening which are contrary to the law and infringe both his rights and those of his lawyers’. The court had prohibited the defence from viewing DVD discs and making copies of them. According to the lawyer, these actions contravened Articles 70, 120 and 328 of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. He called on the President of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan to ensure compliance with the law. ^[101]

23 SEPTEMBER 2026 — PAVLODAR — Mr Alimzhan Yeskaraev published a compilation of information about individuals listed in the Prosecutor General’s official public register relating to sexual offences against children. The register contains photographs and information about convictions or criminal prosecutions. Mr Yeskaraev stated that he was using official information to inform parents and was not calling for harassment, threats or vigilantism. The current information can be checked on the official map available through the Qamqor portal. ^[102]

23 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The editorial team of Exclusive.kz discovered at least three websites copying the appearance of its publication. The imitation websites contained an article about Mr Azat Peruashev, the former chairman of the Ak Zhol party, which Exclusive.kz had never published. Mr Peruashev himself described the publication on social media as a provocation and stated that he intended to refer the matter to law enforcement authorities. ^[103]

23 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KOSTANAY — Ms Aisulu Bakatova, in proceedings under Article 73-3(2) of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, was the subject of an administrative offence report drawn up by Police Captain Mr Sabit Tulegenov. The report alleged that, on 29 August 2026, she had ‘disseminated knowingly false information on social media, on the Instagram page of the Human Rights Centre, thereby damaging the honour and dignity of Ms Yuliya Petrova’. The court ordered the proceedings to be discontinued on the grounds that Ms Bakatova’s conduct did not disclose the elements of an administrative offence. ^[104]

24 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ORAL — Former members of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Uralsk City Maslikhat (local representative body) submitted an official appeal to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, demanding that the decision to sell the entire 100% shareholding in JSC Uralsk Zenit Plant for 18.49 billion tenge be reconsidered. They called for the appropriateness of the sale to be examined in light of the long-term interests of national security. ^[105]

24 SEPTEMBER 2026 — TEMIRTAU — Footage circulated online of court proceedings in the case of Ms Madina Kuantayeva. The footage showed Judge Mr Islamkhan Yesenbayev putting on his judicial robe in the courtroom in full view of the public and interrupting defence lawyers. When an attempt was made to seek his recusal, he responded on camera: ‘You can make the application later. You can complain about me.’ The defence subsequently exercised its right to seek recusal. The presiding judge of the city court granted the application and removed Judge Mr Yesenbayev from the case. ^[106]

24 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Cassation Court for Administrative Cases considered and refused an application for asylum by Russian national Ms Yuliya Yemelyanova, notwithstanding the position previously taken by the lower courts in her favour. Ms Yemelyanova, an activist associated with the St Petersburg branch of Alexei Navalny’s political network, has been held in a pre-trial detention centre for more than a year pursuant to Russia’s extradition request. Representatives of the European Union and United States embassies attended the hearing. ^[107]

24 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY Region — Residents of Shalkar village in Karasai District blocked the road in protest against systematic and prolonged electricity outages. Footage captured the forceful arrest of one of the participants. The video shows police officers forcibly handcuffing a man and pushing him into a police vehicle. ^[108]

24 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Naуryzbay District Police Department drew up a report against lawyer Ms Gulnara Zhuaspaeva under Article 667 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, concerning disobedience to the police. The provision carries a penalty of up to 15 days’ administrative detention. The lawyer believes the action is connected with her professional activities representing Russian citizen Ms Anastassiya Stepashkina and her four-year-old son in proceedings against the child’s biological father, Mr Rustam Guniashev. The incident arose from the lawyer’s refusal to allow her bag to be searched while accompanying her client to the police station. ^[109]

24 SEPTEMBER 2026 — TALDYKORGAN — Mr Zhakipbek Ormanov and eight other Muslims appeared before the court on charges under Article 405(2) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan of participating in the banned Muslim movement Tablighi Jamaat. They face up to two years’ imprisonment. The National Security Committee installed a covert camera in Mr Ormanov’s home and recorded conversations. ^[110]

24 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced early elections to maslikhats at all levels during the first session of the Kazakhstan People’s Council. He stated: ‘The overwhelming majority of maslikhat deputies were elected on the Amanat party ticket. At present, this party is not operating independently, having joined the Ädilet party.’ ^[111]

24 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — An appeal was made to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and other officials in connection with the criminal case concerning the death of Mr Bagaudin Oziyev. Proceedings are pending against Mr Akim Zadorozhny under Article 106(3) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. A relative of the deceased Mr Oziyev, stated: ‘The possibility of self-defence is ruled out in this case, and I ask that a fair judicial investigation be ensured.’ ^[112]

24 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Activist Ms Aigul Tokpayeva reported: ‘Late in the evening, representatives of the guardianship authorities and the police department came to my home. They had no documents authorising them to ask questions concerning confidential information. They were unable to explain clearly why they had come or what information they wished to obtain.’ ^[113]

25 SEPTEMBER 2026 — GENEVA — It was announced that the 93rd session of the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) would take place on 5–6 October 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. A report by the NeMolchi Foundation was to be presented. The report states that criminal cases have been initiated in Kazakhstan against the Foundation’s leaders, Ms Dinara Smailova and Mr Almat Mukhamedzhanov; their banking accounts have been blocked; and transparent public fundraising has been characterised as ‘fraud’. ^[114]

25 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — The Ädil Söz Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech has produced an overview monitoring the situation in Kazakhstan regarding the right to freedom of expression and the freedom to receive and impart information, covering the period from 18 to 25 September 2026. ^[115]

26 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Independent car sales brokers appealed to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, asking him to address the increase to 48% in the cost of processing registrations for vehicles imported from abroad. They stated: ‘The changes were introduced without prior notification to market participants and without clear official explanations.’ ^[116]

27 SEPTEMBER 2026 — PAVLODAR Region — Mses Zhibek Zhakupova and Almagul Yelimbayeva, members of the group seeking to establish the Alga, Kazakhstan! party, attempted to plant a spruce tree dedicated to Mr Marat Zhylanbayev at the site of a felled tree in an avenue of trees planted by the city’s honorary citizens. However, the police and the akimat (local executive authority) sought to prevent them from doing so. In mid-September, unidentified individuals felled the commemorative tree. ^[117]

28 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — A pre-trial investigation was registered into the dissemination of knowingly false information in connection with the appearance of websites imitating the publication Exclusive.kz and carrying material about Mr Azat Peruashev. Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Mr Sanzhar Adilov stated: ‘Cybercrime units are currently working to identify the owners of the corresponding imitation websites concerned.’ ^[118]

28 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Ms Ainura Kaidarova reported that she had received a telephone call from the police. The caller did not identify themselves but demanded that she delete comments posted beneath an entry concerning the deaths of 14 service personnel in Aktau during naval exercises. She responded that she had no malicious intent and demanded that the officer set out in writing the grounds for alleging an offence. ^[119]

28 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — A court hearing took place in proceedings brought by Mr Shorman Iskakov concerning the protection of the honour and dignity of the akim of Akkol District in Akmola Region. The dispute concerned statements by the defendant alleging that approximately 500,000 tenge was transferred to the district leadership each month, as well as statements about the activities of a commercial organisation which he associated with the claimant and the claimant’s relatives. The court partially upheld the claim. ^[120] ^[121] ^[122]

28 SEPTEMBER 2026 — WORLDWIDE — More than 150 human rights defenders and representatives of civil society organisations from various countries addressed the authorities of Kazakhstan, demanding that the extradition proceedings against Ms Yuliya Emelyanova and Mr Mansur Movlaev to Russia be halted and that a diplomatic corridor be arranged to enable them to reach a safe third country. ^[123]

28 SEPTEMBER 2026 — NEW YORK, NY — A protest took place outside the building housing the Consulate General of Kazakhstan against the extradition of Russian activists Ms Yuliya Emelyanova and Mr Mansur Movlaev, who are being held in a pre-trial detention centre in Almaty pursuant to requests from Moscow. Participants called on Kazakhstan not to extradite the activists to Russia and to comply with its international obligations. ^[124]

28 SEPTEMBER 2026 — PAVLODAR — Relatives of convicted prisoners gathered outside Penal Colony No. 46 following searches conducted at the facility. Human rights defenders received complaints alleging the use of violence. On 22 September 2026, during the searches, masked security personnel took prisoners onto a football pitch and forced them to kneel with their hands behind their heads. Prisoners were called out by surname and taken to a sports hall, where they were allegedly beaten and insulted. The Department of the Penal Enforcement System has denied all the allegations. ^[125]

28 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY Region — The administration of a women’s penal colony refused to allow activists Messrs Abzal Dostiyar and Dauren Dostiyar short-term visits with Ms Aigerim Tleuzhan, who is serving a four-year prison sentence under Article 272(2) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The refusal was justified on the grounds that only relatives may visit convicted prisoners. However, Article 106(2) of the Penal Enforcement Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan provides for short-term visits lasting two hours with a spouse, relatives or other persons. ^[126]

29 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ZHANAOZEN — Workers of KPTK LLP recorded a video appeal to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev requesting assistance. They reported that they were being forced to move to an eight-hour working day, which would substantially reduce their wages. The workers demanded that their existing working conditions be maintained and that the pressure on them cease. ^[127]

29 SEPTEMBER 2026 — Police reported identifying instances of the dissemination of inaccurate information concerning the deaths of 14 service personnel in Mangystau Region. Mses D. S. and G. S. had published posts on their Facebook pages alleging that service personnel Mr A. A. had independently reached the shore, rescued a drowning colleague, and that his actions and the circumstances of the rescue were being deliberately concealed. A resident of Shymkent, Ms S. K., and a resident of Kokshetau, Mr K. O., were also identified as having disseminated inaccurate information about the incident. By court order, the individuals concerned were each fined 20 monthly calculation indices (MCIs). ^[128]

29 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — The Committee of the Penal Enforcement System of Kazakhstan launched an inquiry following an attempted suicide by Chechen activist Mr Mansur Movlaev, who is being held in extradition detention in Almaty and may be extradited to Russia. The Committee stated: ‘He does not require hospitalisation, and there is no threat to his life or health. Nevertheless, an inquiry into the incident is under way.’ ^[129]

30 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ALMATY — Journalist Ms Dinara Yegeubayeva reported a series of fake accounts and publications disseminating inaccurate information either in her name or through the use of her name and photographs. A post appeared on Threads claiming that Ms Yegeubayeva had allegedly approached the United States Embassy to seek political asylum. The journalist described the information as false. ^[130]

30 SEPTEMBER 2026 — KARAGANDY Region — Former akim of the Bakhty rural district in Karkaraly District Mr Serikbolsyn Toleuuly, believing that he had been unlawfully dismissed, appealed to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for justice. He emphasised that he had been elected to the position by direct popular vote. His dismissal followed allegations that he had placed a bet with a bookmaker in 2025. Mr Toleuuly categorically denies the allegation. He brought a complaint before the court, but the court refused to uphold it. ^[131]

30 SEPTEMBER 2026 — AKTOBE — Individuals affected by a criminal case gathered outside the city prosecutor’s office and publicly demanded an objective investigation and the return of money they had paid for overseas holidays. They also demanded that the trial be conducted in open court. ^[132]

30 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Mr Sanzhar Adilov stated at a briefing at the Kurultai that police officers had not telephoned social media users to demand the deletion of publications concerning the deaths of service personnel in the Caspian Sea. Earlier, several Kazakhstani citizens had reported receiving such calls. One of them, a man named Temirlan (@timporello), had even published an audio recording of a conversation with an individual claiming to be a police officer. ^[133]

30 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Mr Musagali Dauylov had submitted a notification to the Aktobe city akimat in May 2025 seeking permission to hold a rally to express public opinion on matters relating to ensuring a decent standard of living for citizens. The akimat refused permission. The activist challenged the decision in court, but the first-instance courts ruled in favour of the akimat. The Cassation Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan subsequently overturned the decisions of the Aktobe courts and upheld Mr Dauylov’s claim against the akim of Aktobe. The court held that where an akimat refuses to permit an assembly because another event is scheduled to take place, it must propose that the organiser change the location or time of the peaceful assembly. ^[134]

30 SEPTEMBER 2026 — ASTANA — Members of the KazTAG editorial team reported several incidents, including the blocking of WhatsApp accounts, spam attacks on Telegram, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks against the website, and the appearance of imitation websites and accounts disseminating inaccurate information in the name of the news agency. ^[135]

^[1] https://adilsoz.kz/news/akkaunt-zhanny-baytelovoy-v-facebook-okazalsya-pod-ugrozoy-blokirovki.html

^[2] https://lmc.kz/otkrytoe-obrashhenie-deputatam-kurultaya/

^[3] https://tirek.info/est-li-shansy-u-politzekov-na-amnistiyu/?preview=true

^[4] https://tirek.info/profil-plemyannitsy-tokaeva-ischez-s-sajta-parlamenta/?preview=true
Access to the website has been restricted with effect from 3 October 2026 https://d1t2sqgex9r4wa.cloudfront.net/a/profil-plemyannitsy-tokaeva-ischez-s-sayta-parlamenta-i-poyavilsya-vnov-posle-obrascheniya-azattyka-k-predstavitelyam-kurultaya/33844805.html

^[5] https://tirek.info/iz-upk-pora-isklyuchit-vse-stati-kotorye-garantiruyut-prava-obvinyaemyh-i-ih-zashhitnikov/?preview=true

^[6] https://tirek.info/v-uralske-neskolko-ohrannikov-vyshli-na-ploshhad-pered-akimatom-iz-za-zaderzhki-zarplaty/?preview=true

^[7] https://tirek.info/zoozashhitniki-kazahstana-obratilis-k-akimu-almaty-darhanu-satybaldy-iz-za-otlova-sobak/?preview=true

^[8] https://vlast.kz/novosti/71089-ekolog-olzas-dujsenov-prigovoren-k-75-godam-lisenia-svobody.html

^[9] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2875

^[10] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2876

^[11] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2877

^[12] https://tirek.info/61191-2/?preview=true