MONITORING OF POLITICAL PERSECUTION IN THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN from 1 September 30, 2025

September 2, Almaty: Journalist Mirbolat Myrzatiuly was arrested for allegedly causing social, national, or religious discord, an offense that is prosecuted under Article 174 of the Criminal Code of the RK. The investigative court imposed a sentence of two months of arrest on the journalist[1].

September 2, Petropavlovsk: G. Beisembaeva, the wife and defender of the trainer A. Konkaev, who was convicted under Article 174 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and sentenced to six years in prison for allegedly supporting Palestine, stated that the charges were illegal. She appealed to President K. Tokayev and the public[2].

September 2, Astana: At a briefing, the penalties for those who try to avoid compulsory military service were announced by representatives of the Ministry of Defense. Provision is made for both administrative and criminal liability[3].

September 2, Akmola Region, Granitny settlement, Institution No. 7, Aidar Syzdykov (Article 297 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 5 years’ imprisonment). Aidar called a human rights activist and wanted to share important news, but his call was cut off, human rights activist S. Izmailov reported [4].

September 2, Kargandy Region, Kushoky village: A fire broke out here, destroying eight apartments. The district akim declined to take responsibility for the incident, stating that he was “not responsible for the incident”. Villagers are demanding the akim’s resignation. They say he did not take action. The villagers are also appealing directly to Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. They are asking him for help[5].

September 2, Zhetysu Region: The former akims of Taldykorgan attempted to address the media’s inquiries regarding their operations, but Ernat Bazil, who assumed the role of akim two years ago, has been known to disregard Pravo.kz journalists and decline to provide comments[6].

September 2, Astana: T. Danebaev (Article 174 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan, 3 years’ imprisonment), recognized by human rights activists as a “political prisoner”, was released after serving his full court-imposed sentence[7].

September 2, Akmola Region, Stepnogorsk, Institution No. 4. Lawyer M. Doskaraev visited M. Zhylanbaev (Article 405, Part 2, Article 258, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment). Marat’s health has been reported to be poor after a hunger strike that lasted several days. The lawyer said that Marat is suffering from stomach problems, lower back pain, and swelling in his legs. The lawyer also reported that the store on the territory of Institution No. 4 does not operate regularly. During dinner in the canteen, the convicts noticed a mouse. This violates hygiene standards[8].

September 2, Astana: The government lacks the authority to compel parliamentarians to install the Aitu messenger app, according to Mazhilis deputy B. Bazarbek. “It is not within the purview of any individual to compel another to utilize this application. We deputies are elected by the people. We can’t be forced to do anything by anyone except the people and the Speaker of the Mazhilis”, B. Bazarbek said[9].

September 2, Astana: Journalist A. Koskina asked Minister of Internal Affairs E. Sadenov if Kazakhstan plans to establish a border control system with integrated government agency databases in response to Russia’s launch of a similar system. However, the journalist was interrupted by the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs before she could clarify her question. “Please don’t shout. I will not answer you”, said Minister Sadenov, who then left the press conference[10].

September 3, Astana: The ability to sign petitions on the ePetition website via eGov Mobile will not be available to Kazakhstani citizens for another year. “The implementation of the mobile petition signing function depends on the allocation of budget funds. No budget funds have been allocated for this function this year”, according to National Information Technologies JSC”[11].

September 3, Almaty: Before a press conference where she was going to report on blatant violations committed by the administration of School No. 12 and state authorities, activist Aizhan Mameshova was forcibly taken to the police station[12].

September 3, Almaty: At a press conference, human rights activist E. Kaliev reported on several issues. The conference was entitled “Corruption in Almaty’s General Education Schools, the Real Power of the Law in Combating Corruption in Kazakhstan, and the Role of the Judiciary in This Process”. Kaliev said that there is “systematic extortion and contributions in schools”. These contributions bypass the treasury and tax authorities. They have rallied all government agencies around them[13].

September 3, Karaganda: A court hearing was being filmed by journalist M. Nurgalimov. The court clerk expressed their disapproval of the filming of the hearing, and as a result, an administrative report was filed against the journalist. He was fined 78,000 tenge[14].

September 3, Astana: Deputy Bazarbek announced that the lawsuit filed by Salauatty Astana LLP against him to protect its honor, dignity, and reputation had been deemed unfounded[15].

September 3, Atyrau: The fight against domestic violence was reported by the Police Department. Since the beginning of 2025, 3,232 administrative offenses have been registered. These were registered under Article 73 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Domestic violence most often affects women and children. The manifestation of this phenomenon occurs in four forms: psychological, physical, economic, and sexual[16].

September 3, Kostanay: The court rejected activist S. Zinchenko’s request for compensation for emotional distress due to his illegal detention in a psychiatric hospital from August 31, 2023, to November 3, 2023. The court reasoned that the culpability of state authorities in this matter had not been proven[17].

September 3, Taldykorgan: Residents of the Krasny Kamen (Qyzyl Tas) dacha community filed a complaint with the Taldykorgan Public Council about the poor quality of the drinking water. The water is dirty and has an unpleasant odor. It is unfit for drinking[18].

September 3, Astana: Activist Bagdat Baktybaev was sentenced to 15 days in jail for violating the rules of conduct under Article 434, Part 1 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the RK[19].

September 4, Almaty: A. Ilyashev, an activist, made an appeal to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Committee of the Criminal Executive System: “Stop political repression. At present, there are dozens of political prisoners in the camps. At least four of my friends and colleagues are on the list: A. Tleuzhanova, D. Namazbayev, D. Mukhammedkarim, and N. Altaev”[20].

September 4, Akmola Region, settlement of Granitny: Lawyer D. Malyuga, after meeting with A. Syzdykov (Article 297 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 5 years’ imprisonment) and reviewing the case materials, reported that Aidar’s rights were being grossly violated: the authorities were concealing documents and falsifying complaints[21].

September 5, Almaty region: During the events that took place in January of 2022, weapons were stolen. Law enforcement officers detained five residents on charges of possessing these stolen items. “Police found six weapons and police equipment, including bulletproof vests and helmets, in illegal circulation”[22].

September 5, Astana: Information about the topics and organizers of the rallies was refused to be provided to journalist D. Okremova by the city administration, citing personal data protection. It was claimed by the city administration that “the topics of these meetings are sensitive information”[23].

September 5, Almaty: Russian activist Y. Emelyanova was detained at the airport. She was flying through Kazakhstan in transit when she was detained at passport control because Russia is seeking her under Article 158 of the Russian Criminal Code for theft. Human rights activists think the case was fake because the woman had volunteered at Alexei Navalny’s headquarters in St. Petersburg[24].

September 5, Almaty: Aizhan Mameshova, Article 274, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The activist was placed under house arrest. In the criminal case concerning the dissemination of deliberately false information, the investigative court transferred her to the status of a suspect[25].

September 5, Konaev, A. Sadyrbay, Article 189 of the Criminal Code of the RK. The investigative court has decided to extend A. Sadyrbay’s detention for two more months, until November 5, 2025. The investigation revealed that, from 2021 to 2024, he received state subsidies illegally, amounting to around 1.2 billion tenge[26].

September 5, Astana: The city administration denied animal rights activists’ request to hold a rally against proposed amendments to the “Responsible Treatment of Animals” law, which would reinstate euthanasia for stray animals. According to the animal protection association Inucobo, the reason given for denying the rally was a violation of the notification deadline[27].

September 5, Aktau: Adilet Sagandykuly was sentenced to 15 days in jail under Article 667, Part 2 of the Code of Administrative Offences for participating in an unauthorized protest with a sign that read, “Freedom to political prisoners”. On September 10, the court imposed an additional five days of arrest under Article 653, Part 1 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK for contempt of court[28].

September 5, Almaty: The human rights community is demanding a response from the supervisory authorities regarding the rough detention of A. Mameshova. A video of her detention spread online, causing a public outcry. Mameshova has spoken out about corruption and violations against orphans in Almaty. Consequently, she was charged under Article 274 of the Criminal Code of the RK[29].

September 8, Karakalpak activist Akylbek Muratbay spoke about the difficulties faced by citizens of Central Asian countries who are detained in Kazakhstan. The consulates or embassies of these countries neither visit their imprisoned citizens nor respond to their letters about rights violations[30].

September 8, Taraz: Court No. 2 began proceedings in the case of extortion against activist and blogger A. Dzundibaev, who is accused of violating Article 194, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of the RK. The investigation revealed that the defendants made a demand for 2.5 million tenge from the director of the Taraz Arena Municipal Enterprise[31].

September 8, Kostanay: The presidium of the Kostanay Regional Bar Association did not see anything wrong with the fact that I. Shishov, a lawyer, deputy of the Rudny Maslikhat from the Respublika party, and member of the association, was negotiating with blogger M. Sarsenbayev from the village of Karabalyk to remove negative content in exchange for money. Shishov threw a bag of money over the fence to Sarsenbayev[32].

September 8, Almaty: activist R. Amangeldy, Article 669, Part 1 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 5 days of arrest. The court determined the circumstances surrounding his failure to comply with the court order. He was made aware of the ruling and did not appeal it. He is currently facing enforcement proceedings, with which he strongly disagrees and is not complying with[33].

September 9-10: Astana hosted the 13th Platform on the Safety and Protection of Human Rights Defenders and Civil Society Activists, supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the team of the UN Special Rapporteur and the Sigrid Rausing Trust. A comparison of the protection index for human rights defenders and activists in Kazakhstan showed that, overall, the level of security has decreased[34].

September 9, Almaty: Aktau prosecutor E. Abdirov was detained at the Almaty airport for “drunken disorderly conduct”. Administrative reports were filed under Articles 440(1) and 434(1) of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK. The Mangistau Region Prosecutor’s Office has announced that an internal investigation is currently ongoing[35].

September 9, Kokshetau: The court received a submission from the Institution No. 65 of the Committee of the Criminal Executive System of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan regarding the establishment of administrative supervision for T. Danebaev (Article 174 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan; three years’ imprisonment). Danebaev was released due to the expiration of his prison term, which the court approved[36].

September 9, Mangistau Region, Zhanaozen: A State Revenue Service employee was found placing bets on gambling. The civil servant was dismissed for violating civil service and anti-corruption legislation[37].

September 9: A foreign citizen may be banned from entering the country for up to three years according to the federal law of the Russian Federation on the procedure for entry and exit. For Kazakhstani citizens who actively travel and work in Russia, this rule is particularly important. The foundation for this is the concept of repeated administrative liability, which extends to traffic violations. Two cases in three years are enough for entry to be restricted by the migration authorities[38].

September 9, Astana: The Prosecutor General’s Office issued a warning about data leaks at Google. While overseeing the global internet space, a cyber threat was identified. This cyber threat involved the hacking of Google’s database and the leakage of Gmail user data[39].

September 9, Kostanay: Residents of a nine-story apartment building have been held hostage amid a dispute between their developer, Irina and K LLP, and the owners of a neighboring individual development, which belongs to the Esergepovs and Yerzhanovs. The development is actually scheduled for demolition. A park is planned for this site[40].

September 10, Stepnogorsk, Institution No. 4, M. Zhylanbaev, Article 258, 405 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 7 years ‘ imprisonment. Lawyer D. Malyuga reported on M. Zhylanbaev’s poor health. There are also operational problems with the store, and accessing Skype is difficult. The terminals for submitting applications are not functioning properly. Marat promised to write a cassation appeal himself and submit it to the Supreme Court[41].

September 10, Brussels (Belgium): For the first time, the European Union is considering imposing sanctions on Kazakhstan due to its supply of certain goods to Russia. Consequently, Kazakhstan may be prohibited from importing a particular range of equipment, which persists in being diverted in substantial quantities to Russia, where it is utilized for the fabrication of weaponry[42].

September 10, Shymkent: The Judicial Ethics Commission has issued a decision regarding Judge Abinur Karabayev, who was observed sticking his tongue out at a journalist. “It has been decided to send the materials of the investigation concerning Judge A. Karabayev for consideration on the merits. They will be sent to the judicial jury of the Supreme Judicial Council of Kazakhstan”[43].

September 10, Almaty: The City Court denied the appeal and agreed with the decision made on August 14, 2025, by the Court of First Instance. The court ruled that lawyer D. Zhubatova would be fined 495,432 tenge under Article 73-3 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK for defamation[44].

September 9, Arkalyk: A request for help in repairing a building at 58 Kairbekov Street was made by its residents to Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The residents had already submitted appeals to the Arkalyk Housing and Utilities Department and to regional akim Mr. Aksakalov, but these efforts had not been successful[45].

September 10, Taraz: A video from a boarding school in Taraz has been circulating on social media. The footage shows several boys. They drag a girl into a toilet cubicle. Then they close the door from the inside. When other kids look in, the camera shows the girl trying to put on her pants while the boys crowd around her[46].

September 11, Atyrau: A search of the LLP’s office was conducted by the National Security Committee, but the lawyer was not allowed to see his client, despite having presented his documents. Mr. N. Bisengaliyev, the head of the investigative department, and investigator Mr. D. Kashym denied Mr. Tlek Khamitov, a lawyer, access to the office. They stated that weapons would be used to prevent him from entering[47].

September 10, Almaty: A criminal case was opened against blogger Raihan Zhumuratova. She made hostile comments about children with autism[48].

September 10, Almaty: The court held the trial in the high-profile case of bloggers D. Kusheev, R. Karimov, K. Aitmukhanov, and A. Belyansky under Article 194, Part 4 of the Criminal Code of the RK. The bloggers stand accused of extorting a substantial sum from convicted businessman Bakhtiar Blaev in January 2025. Not a single one has confesses” to their culpability[49].

September 11, Kokshetau: The Health Department reported: «M. Zhylanbaev is currently under the care of the Stepnogorsk City Hospital, where he is undergoing daily medical monitoring. Laboratory and instrumental examinations were conducted on August 12, 2025”[50].

September 1: Dozens of thousands of documents became publicly available. The documents belonged to Geedge Networks. Geedge Networks is a Chinese company. It specializes in Internet control systems. An investigation by InterSecLab revealed that one of the company’s early clients was Kazakhstan, which entered into a contract for the provision of technologies comparable to the Great Firewall of China[51].

September 12, Akmola Region, Zerenda village. N. Zhusupova was sentenced to 15 days in jail under Article 488 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK. She was accused of participating in a protest on February 20, 2025, in the village of Zerenda, where she held a sign that read, “Tokayev ket”. N. Zhusupova claims that she had already served her sentence for this offense on February 20, 2025[52].

September 12, Almaty: The decision of the Aktau Specialized Court to terminate proceedings under Articles 440(1) and 434(1) of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK against Aktau Prosecutor E. Abdirov for “drunk and disorderly conduct” was appealed by the Almaty Prosecutor. The press service of the prosecutor’s office reported that the legality of this judicial act and the grounds for appeal will be considered by the Mangistau Regional Court[53].

September 12, Almaty: The Center for Combating Disinformation was established within the Central Communications Service under the President of Kazakhstan in 2025. “This is an attempt to use administrative and legal measures to curb the spread of alternative opinions. It’s yet another sign of authoritarianism. I reiterate, in situations where there is transparency, there are no counterfeits”, stated E. Zhovtis[54].

September 12, Almaty region: The owners of the DOS, Bely Bim, and Domik v Derevne dog shelters report that the local government and residents are pressuring them. The district veterinary service inspected the facility after receiving complaints from residents and reported violations. The shelter owners have expressed their disagreement with the findings, asserting that their actions are in accordance with the law and are funded by their own resources[55].

September 12, Montenegro: the request by Kazakhstan to extradite D. Smailova, head of the NeMolchi.kz foundation, was finally denied by the Supreme Court. The High Court’s decision on September 4 was to refuse the Kazakh Prosecutor General’s request for extradition. The appellate court reviewed the decision on September 12, 2025, and it took effect at that time[56].

September 12, Turkestan Region: The Administrative Court upheld Abzal Togaev’s claim and canceled order of the State Institution “Department of Emergency Situations” to dismiss the officer. The court ruled to reinstate Abzyl Togaev in his service. A total of 1,046,091 tenge was awarded for the period officer’s forced absence from work, and an additional 100,000 tenge was awarded as compensation for moral damages[57].

September 12, Semey: The civil court considered a lawsuit filed by the Ministry of Justice to revoke the license of lawyer T., who had defended a suspect in a criminal case involving the lawyer’s son, a police officer. However, the court emphasized that revocation of a license is permissible only in cases of gross or repeated violations of the law and professional ethics[58].

September 13: Kazakh women are criticizing the president for his statement about women who allegedly cause public scandals. They openly express their dissatisfaction. They accuse the head of state of being misogynistic. Outrage has been expressed by Kazakh women over the president’s statement[59].

September 13: Akmeir Kusheeva, a mother of many children and wife of the detained blogger D. Kusheev (charged under Article 194, Part 4 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan), appealed to President K. Tokayev of Kazakhstan: “My husband has been in prison for nine months. He was punished not for a crime, but for speaking the truth. He has always defended people, raised sensitive issues, and glorified Kazakhstan”[60].

September 15, Almaty: President K. Tokayev is asked to stop construction projects in Almaty and take a comprehensive approach to discussing the development of tourism in natural areas without causing damage to the environment. The letter expresses concern that the construction of a mountain cluster will damage natural areas and affect the ecology of Almaty[61].

September 15, Pavlodar: Peschanoye village Help was requested by pupils at a children’s support center, who also lodged complaints about bullying and insults from the center’s administration and teachers. The employee was reprimanded. A case has been opened against the former teacher by the Terenkol district police department under Article 140, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of RK[62].

September 15, East Kazakhstan Region, Bobrovka village, Institution No. 22, O. Aidarkhanov, A. Shoibekov, N. Khamitov, and S. Turpanbayev, Article 146 of the Criminal Code of the RK (torture), 3 years’ imprisonment for torture in January 2022. Former police officers filed motions to replace the unserved portion of their sentences with a less severe punishment that would allow for early release. The motions were returned by the judicial panel without consideration due to the lack of victims’ addresses[63].

September 15, Aktau: On September 12, 2025, the Mangistau Regional Court overturned the acquittal handed down by the court of first instance against prosecutor E. Abdirov for hooliganism at the Almaty airport, as outlined in Article 434, Part 1 of the Administrative Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The court sentenced Abdirov to a fine of 78,640 tenge[64].

September 16, Almaty: A press conference was held regarding the arrest of journalist Mirbolat Myrzataiuly on September 2 under Article 174 of the RK Criminal Code. The speakers discussed the true state of affairs in this case and the lawlessness and pressure on the journalist. The speakers emphasized that this is not just a case involving one person, but rather a threat to freedom of speech and the civil rights of us all[65].

September 16, Ust-Kamenogorsk: Information suggesting that the city prosecutor, Timur Chakpantaev, is suspected of beating his subordinates was published by several Kazakh Telegram channels. According to the regional department, they are conducting an official investigation into the prosecutor[66].

September 16, Astana: Amendments to criminal legislation will take effect under the new Article 125-1 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (RK), “Coercion to Marry”. The punishment is a fine, correctional or community service, or restriction or deprivation of liberty[67].

September 17, Kyzylorda, Institution No. 60. Lawyer G. Nurpeisov visited D. Mukhammedkarim, Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 7 years’ imprisonment. Mukhammedkarim began his hunger strike on August 29, 2025. Since then, he has lost 12 kilograms and has complained of poor health. He requires medical treatment. However, the statements submitted by Duman are not being forwarded to the appropriate authorities. The lawyer’s rights have been violated. Police searched him and seized some documents and a statement addressed to human rights defender B. Torgozhina[68].

September 17, Uralsk: The lawsuit that had been filed by independent observers from the Zhariya public organization against the chairman of the city public council, Zh. Zhapbarkulov was dismissed by the administrative court. The judge ruled that there were no grounds to consider the chairman’s comments on a Facebook post by B. Srazhanov, the head of the Zhariya NGO, about violations at Polling Station No. 222 in the Kaztalovsky District during the elections, as offensive or defamatory[69].

September 17, Astana: The city’s Specialized Interdistrict Administrative Court held a second preliminary hearing regarding the lawsuit filed by nine Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty-Kazakhstan journalists against the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The journalists sued over the Ministry’s refusal to grant them accreditation. The lawsuit demanded that the violations be remedied. The court ruled to suspend proceedings in the administrative case until the resolution of the lawsuit filed by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty-Kazakhstan against the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan regarding the recognition of the refusal to accredit journalists as illegal[70].

September 17, Zhambyl Region: NSC border guard soldiers made a video showing them forcing a colleague to howl like a wolf and dance. When he refused, they set fire to his glove. The video recording became the basis for initiating a criminal case under Article 440, Part 3 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan for violating regulations governing relations between military servicemen[71].

September 17, Kyzylorda: Institution No. 60, D. Mukhammedkarim, Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment. On August 6, 2025, an object was thrown into Duman’s cell and exploded with a loud bang. The object contained metal pieces, including nails. Because there was no investigation, Duman went on hunger strike again on August 29 in protest[72].

September 18, Almaty Region, Zhaugashy village: At Institution No. 10, where Aigerim Tleuzhanova is serving her sentence, construction of an outdoor toilet has begun. Aigerim had just raised the issue of building an outdoor toilet under the less strict regime[73].

September 18, Astana: An investigation into the death of soldier D. Shynarbek in military unit No. 01098 of the Guards Garrison is now underway. The court has ordered the required expert examinations. The Chief Military Prosecutor’s Office is overseeing the investigation[74].

September 18, Atyrau, Aziza Arkenova accused the court of injustice. She demanded intervention in the murder of her husband. He was an ambulance paramedic. “On September 3, the judge decided to arrest the suspect, but on September 12, he released him under house arrest”. Is that fair?” Arkenova asked[75].

September 18, East Kazakhstan Region: Since the beginning of 2025, seven children have left a special school for children with disruptive behavior ahead of schedule based on a decision by a specialized interdistrict juvenile court. Four of the seven students who left the school were girls[76].

September 18, Semey: The court considered B. Baiburov’s lawsuit against the Territorial Election Commission to overturn its decision issued on September 12, 2025, against the plaintiff. The court found that Baiburov did not meet the requirements to be a candidate for akim of Semey City because he “did not comply with the qualification requirements in terms of work experience”[77].

September 19, East Kazakhstan Region: Cattle have begun dying in the village of Maraldy. The cows’ deaths are said to have been caused by drinking water from the river near the gold processing plant. The plant was built by the company VSAM Production right on top of a mountain, above the homes of the residents of the village of Maraldy[78].

September 19, Astana, “During the 2025 period, 11 individuals were convicted of inciting national and religious discord. An inappropriate opinion about another nation was expressed on TikTok by a resident of the capital. “By acting in this way, he incited discord on the basis of nationality”, the office of the prosecutor stated[79].

September 19, Musyrmankulov (Article 146 of the Criminal Code of the RK, torture, 2 years’ imprisonment), an employee of the Almalinsky District Police Department, was sentenced by Judge B. Bakirbaev for using physical force against A. Zuev, a resident of Almaty. Musyrmankulov committed this crime with two colleagues[80].

September 19, Atyrau: Nurlan Zholbolov, a lawyer, has sent a video message to the National Security Committee of Kazakhstan. In it, he demands a full investigation into two things: the activities of the Department of the National Security Committee and the work of the regional prosecutor’s office regarding violations of the rights of detainees[81] .

September 19: In the Atyrau region, the true conditions of the detention center and penal colonies were revealed: The detention center, which has a capacity of 340, is currently holding 308 detainees. The men’s penal colony, which has a capacity of 725, is currently holding 721 convicts. The women’s penal colony is overcrowded, holding 351 women despite having a capacity of 300[82].

On September 19, Almaty, the International Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech «Adil Soz» presents an overview of the events of August 2025, reflecting the state of freedom of expression, receipt and dissemination of information in Kazakhstan[83]

September 20, Astana: “The Committee for the Return of Illegal Assets is being transformed. It will now be known as the Committee for the Protection of Investors’ Rights. The main goal is to create a system that encourages investment in the economy. This includes funds that were previously illegally withdrawn from the country”, Prosecutor General Asylov said on his page on X”[84].

September 21, Ust-Kamenogorsk, “In Kazakhstan, where tens of thousands of people are held in places of deprivation of liberty, this issue remains extremely relevant. What problems do prisoners face? What rights do they have? What reforms are needed?” asked K. Rakhimberd, director of the KIBHR branch in East Kazakhstan region[85].

September 21, Almaty: Parliament Speaker E. Koshanov was addressed by civil society activist T. Kusainov: “It was stated by Member of the Mazhilis of the Republic of Kazakhstan E. E. Zhanbyrshin: ‘There should be one religion in the whole world, and that is Islam’. This statement is in direct opposition to the principles of interreligious tolerance, pluralism, and the secular nature of the state”. Kusainov requested that Parliament consider the issue of depriving E. Zhanbyrshin his deputy mandate[86].

September 22, Almat: A video circulating on social media features a photo of human rights defender B. Toregozhina, in which she allegedly asks for money to fund her activities. «Such provocations should not be fallen for! I implore law enforcement agencies to hold accountable those who disseminate this false and slanderous information about me on social media,» the human rights defender declared. These provocations began after she posted about the situation of political prisoner M. Zhylanbaev (Article 258, 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years in prison)[87].

September 22, Turkestan Region, Kentau: Law enforcement officers raided and disrupted a worship service of the Christian community, Jehovah’s Witnesses. Three believers were detained as a result, and a fourth was severely beaten at the police station[88].

September 23, Karaganda Region: The residents of Aktau village made an appeal to Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, asking him to protect them from unreasonable price increases. The residents of Aktau were recently made aware of a significant increase in electricity rates[89].

September 23, Astana: The Constitutional Court has agreed to look at a citizen’s appeal to check if Article 50, Part 2 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK is in line with the constitution. According to the applicant, the contested regulation, insofar as it prohibits administrative arrest for women with children under the age of 14, contradicts Article 14 of the Constitution[90].

September 23, Aktobe: Outside the military prosecutor’s office, a picket was held. Dissatisfaction with the progress of the investigation into the death of cadet B. Asarbayev has been expressed by the wives of an officer and a sergeant from the Air Defense Forces Institute. The women made it clear that they did not trust the investigation. They demanded that everyone who was responsible be held accountable[91].

Yeskendirova, B. Utebaev, and others submitted a notification to hold a rally on October 25 in the “Glorious Daughters of Kazakhstan” park. Topic: “Stop the rise in prices for food, utilities, gasoline, as well as raise salaries, pensions, benefits, etc.”[92].

September 23, Astana: The court considered A. Tokpaeva’s appeal (Article 380, Part 3 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 2 years of restriction of liberty). The court ruled: The sentence should be changed and the serving of the sentence should be deferred for five years. The rest of the sentence should remain unchanged[93].

September 24, Astana: A bill to amend the Labor Code is being discussed by the Mazhilis of Parliament. The bill would make changes to the code’s provisions for resolving labor disputes and the process for holding strikes. The bill proposes expanding the forms of representation[94].

September 24, Astana: Mazhilis Deputy R. Zaitov sent a request to Prosecutor General B. Asylov regarding the Nazarbayev family’s illegally acquired assets. It was recalled by the Mazhilis member that Nurbol Nazarbayev had been stripped of assets worth 57 billion tenge by the court, a fine of 925 million tenge had been imposed, and 230.4 million tenge in compensation had been awarded [95].

September 24, Aktau: Activist A. Sagandykuly was released (Article 667, Part 2 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK, 15 days of arrest for participating in a picket on September 4, 2025 with a poster reading “Freedom for political prisoners”). On September 10, 2025, the court added five days of arrest under Article 653, Part 1 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK for showing disrespect to the court[96].

September 24, Akmola Region, settlement of Granitny, institution No. 7, A. Syzdykov (Article 297 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 5 years’ imprisonment). Aidar’s lawyer claims that his client is being provoked and pressured, with the aim of preventing his sentence of imprisonment from being replaced with restriction of liberty[97].

September 24, Stepnogorsk: A letter was published from the Prosecutor’s Office regarding the refusal of Mr. K. Tulakov, the head of Institution No. 4, to issue a power of attorney from M. Zhylanbaev to human rights defender B. Toregozhina. “There are no legal grounds for a power of attorney to be refused. A request has been submitted to the Criminal Executive System of the Akmola Region by the prosecutor’s office to eliminate the violation of the law and bring those responsible to justice”[98].

September 24, Astana: A. Tokpaeva, Article 380, Part 3 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 2 years of restricted freedom with a 5-year deferral. She reported that her mother had been pressured by law enforcement agencies. “First, they frightened me by informing me that a criminal case had already been filed against me and that I was walking on a knife’s edge. Then they proposed that I depart the nation entirely, ostensibly to pursue a master’s degree”, stated A. Tokpaeva[99].

September 24, Semey: The Abai Regional Juvenile Court considered a case brought by B. on behalf of his three minor children to restore the deadline for accepting their inheritance after their mother’s death. The notary declined to issue a certificate of inheritance. The court reinstated the deadline and recognized the inheritance as accepted[100].

September 24, Akmola Region, Granitny, Institution No. 7, A. Syzdykov, Article 297 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 5 years’ imprisonment. A. Abishev was denied another personal meeting with T. Bikeev, the head of the institution. He was also denied permission for a short meeting with Aidar. The authorities refer to Order No. 819, according to which other persons are allowed short-term visits only with the permission of the head of the institution[101].

September 24, Almaty: The well-being of journalist D. Mukhammedkarim (Article 258, 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years in prison ) is a pressing concern for his supporters, including lawyers G. Nurpeisov and R. Sarsenbay. They are calling for Mukhammedkarim’s immediate hospital admission, citing concerns for his health. They made this statement at a press conference[102].

September 24, Uralsk: The Akimat denied activists R. Kariev and B. Utebaev permission to hold a rally on October 25 in the “Glorious Daughters of Kazakhstan” Park. They were denied because another cultural event was scheduled for that time. The city administration did not offer an alternative venue, but cautioned that measures would be taken under Article 488 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK if an unauthorized rally were to take place[103].

September 24, North Kazakhstan Region, Birlik village: In the morning, there was a visit by police officers to the home of activist Onerkhan Nurbol. The purpose of the visit was the delivery of information about the opening of a case under Article 456-2, Part 4 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK. The basis for the opening of the case was the dissemination of false information. A court hearing was held in Novoishimsk and was postponed until September 25 at 3:00 p.m.[104].

September 24, Kostanay: Blogger M. Sarsenbayev told the court that he went on a hunger strike to protest his placement in a disciplinary isolation cell and the lack of medical assistance he was receiving. He believes this is retaliation for his activism in the detention center. He informed the administration that the facility was lacking both fire alarms and fire extinguishers[105].

September 24, Astana: K. Pavlov, a journalist who specializes in agricultural issues, wrote a statement to Minister of Agriculture A. Saparov regarding the dissemination of knowingly false information about milk. Pavlov asked the presidential administration to address the situation[106].

September 24, Almaty, Almalinsky District: The district court is hearing the case of Timur Praliev, who is charged under Article 172 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan for “participation in foreign armed conflicts”. Praliev was detained on January 4, 2025, in the United States for attempting to illegally cross the border. He confessed to collaborating with the Wagner Group. Two passports were found on him: one from Kazakhstan and one from Russia[107].

September 24, Almaty: B. Baitilesov, director of the Ministry of Justice’s Center for Forensic Examination, said that Kazakhstan citizens have the right to voice their concerns and request additional or repeat examinations. He added that the law establishes a 30-day period for conducting a forensic examination[108].

September 25, Astana: The Ministry of Internal Affairs removed B. Malybaev from his position as head of the Zhambyl regional police force following a series of high-profile arrests of police officers in Zhambyl and an increase in juvenile criminal activity[109].

September 25, Almaty: Askar Zhumagali, an activist who opposed infill development in Almaty, was sentenced to eight years in prison for rape under Article 120 of the RK Criminal Code. His wife had previously made accusations against law enforcement officials, alleging the fabrication of the criminal case. KazTAG has a video confession from the “complainant” herself. Her name is D. Toktasunova. She said that she did not even know A. Zhumagali before she filed the complaint[110].

September 25, Adil Baizakov is a lawyer at the National Center for State Scientific and Technical Expertise. He recorded a video message for President K. Tokayev. In the video, Baizakov stated that he was under pressure. The pressure came from his employer and law enforcement agencies. It was due to his trade union activities. A. Baizakov refers to the ongoing events as a “staged political spectacle”, highlighting potential corruption risks[111].

September 26: In 2021, women constituted 27% of deputies in the Mazhilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan. However, by 2024, this figure had decreased to 18%. The editorial team at Factcheck.kz has conducted an examination of the shortcomings of the quota system from the perspective of gender equality and the potential for change[112].

September 26, Montenegro: “We are trying to save the Nemolchi Foundation, preserve its work and team, and transform it into a more educational organization to stop violence at its source!” said D. Smailova[113].

September 26, Astana: The city court denied A. Ilyashev’s appeal. Ilyashev had sued the government of Kazakhstan over its decision to build a nuclear power plant near the existing Sary-Shagan military training area[114].

On September 26, Astana: At a meeting of the National Council for Science and Technology, Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed his outrage at social media users who criticize the government, concluding that public opinion should be shaped by qualified experts[115].

September 26: The U.S. State Department published a report on human rights in Kazakhstan in 2024. The report states that the country tortures detainees, persecutes journalists, and permits child religious marriages. The government often arrests political opponents and critics for minor offenses, such as participating in unauthorized gatherings. Courts then sentence them to fines or up to 15 days in jail[116].

September 27, Almaty Region, Talgar: Employees of the Talgar Center for Special Social Services “Ayala” for Children with Disabilities held a protest. Complaints were made about changes to their work schedule and salary cuts, as well as violations related to pension contributions. They demanded an audit[117].

September 27, Karaganda: Students in the lower grades at Secondary School No. 32 in Karaganda are subjected to extortion and constant beatings. Some have even experienced attempted sexual assault. Adil, a teenager who graduated from this school, continues to come to the school grounds. He picks out students both inside the building and on the school grounds and extorts money from them. He beats up those who do not have money. He also beats up those who refuse to give it to him[118].

September 27, Atyrau, “R. Bigaliev, an investigator with the Regional Police Department, filed a complaint against me, alleging that I was engaged in ‘spreading false information’ (Article 456-2 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK). However, the opposite has been confirmed by witnesses and video cameras”, said journalist Olesya Vertinskaya[119] .

September 29, Akmola Region, Stepnogorsk, Institution No. 4, M. Zhylanbaev, Article 405, Part 2, Article 258, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment. M. Zhylanbaev went on hunger strike again on October 13, 2025. His demands are still being clarified[120].

September 29, Astana: The Supreme Court considered the cassation appeal of Zh. Burabayeva concerning the Almaty City Akimat’s repeated refusal to approve solitary pickets. The court has ruled to dismiss the cassation appeal[121].

September 29, Almaty: An Afghan woman named F. flew to one of the European countries. These countries had agreed to accept her on an expedited basis. This was due to serious security threats in her home country. She had previously taught at a girls’ school and collaborated with Western NGOs. According to Taliban law, she should be punished based on written orders[122].

September 29, Astana: In Kazakhstan, Article 232-1 of the Criminal Code was added. It is titled “Illegal Provision, Transfer, and Acquisition of Access to a Bank Account, Payment Instrument, or Identification Means, as Well as Illegal Execution of Payments and/or Money Transfers”[123].

September 29, Karaganda: I. Zubov and the employees of SMU-5 LLP appealed to President K. Tokayev of Kazakhstan, requesting that he take measures against Judge A. Mutalyapova and the chairman of the regional court, E. Aripov, regarding their decisions on debt payments[124].

September 30, North Kazakhstan Region, N. Onerkhan, Article 456-2, Part 4 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK. District Judge G. Musrepova dismissed the administrative case against the activist for “spreading false information” due to a lack of evidence of an offense[125].

September 30: A report was adopted by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) with the title “The Parliamentary Assembly should support Kazakhstan in continuing democratic reforms”. The report emphasizes the importance of drawing attention to the rapidly deteriorating human rights situation in Kazakhstan. The report sets out clear demands. These demands are for judicial reform, anti-corruption measures, and the release of 39 political prisoners. These prisoners have suffered for peaceful protests and civic activism[126].

September 30, Shymkent: A practical training session entitled “Media and the Law: Survival Guide”, organized by the Legal Media Center, was held for journalists and bloggers. The sharing of experiences by speakers G. Birzhanova and D. Okremova included the analysis of real cases and the answering of questions[127].

September 30, Astana: the Court of Cassation rejected a lawsuit filed by lawyer S. Akhmetzhanov against the government, in which he demanded that the time change and the change in time zone be declared illegal. “According to experts’ conclusions, the 5th time zone is considered standard and closest to the natural ‘day-night cycle’ for most of the country,” the court ruled[128].

September 30, Kostanay Region: The Arkalyk City Court considered the case against T. Nurmanov for allegedly violating Article 456-2, Part 3 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK. The court dismissed the case due to the absence of an administrative offense in Nurmanov’s actions[129].

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[2] https://kaztag.kz/ru/news/supruga-osuzhdennogo-na-shest-let-za-posty-v-podderzhku-palestiny-obratilas-k-tokaevu

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