Nine major human rights groups collectively criticized Kazakhstan's escalating pressure on independent media. They cited the recent raid on news outlet Orda.kz and the house arrest of its editor, Gulnara Bazhkenova. Authorities charged her with spreading false information, seizing equipment while denying lawyers a proper warrant.
Her attorney described unusually harsh detention terms, blocking internet access and communication with family. This incident follows other restrictive moves, like new rules allowing credential suspensions for journalists asking unwanted questions. Several reporters from Radio Azattyq also had their accreditations denied this year.
The coalition highlighted a pattern of using anti-disinformation laws to imprison journalists, referencing another recent case. Bazhkenova's legal team has appealed to multiple international bodies over her treatment. Analysts see these actions as part of a broader state campaign to control public criticism and military reporting.
Her attorney described unusually harsh detention terms, blocking internet access and communication with family. This incident follows other restrictive moves, like new rules allowing credential suspensions for journalists asking unwanted questions. Several reporters from Radio Azattyq also had their accreditations denied this year.
The coalition highlighted a pattern of using anti-disinformation laws to imprison journalists, referencing another recent case. Bazhkenova's legal team has appealed to multiple international bodies over her treatment. Analysts see these actions as part of a broader state campaign to control public criticism and military reporting.
