Kazakh Satirist Temirlan Yensebek Sentenced to Five Years of Restricted Freedom

April 17, 2025 – Kazakhstan – 

On April 11, 2025, a court in Almaty sentenced Temirlan Yensebek, founder of the satirical Instagram outlet Qaznews24, to five years of restricted freedom on charges of inciting ethnic and religious hatred. This non-custodial sentence prohibits Yensebek from engaging in journalism, participating in public activities, or giving interviews. Additionally, his phone and laptop were confiscated, and he was ordered to pay a fine of 78,000 tenge (approximately USD 150) into the victims’ compensation fund.

The charges stem from a January 2024 post on Qaznews24 that featured the rap track “Yo, Orystar” (“Yo, Russians”) in response to comments made by Russian TV presenter Tina Kandelaki. Authorities claimed the post incited ethnic discord, leading to Yensebek’s arrest under Article 174 of Kazakhstan’s Criminal Code.

Yensebek’s trial, which lasted three days, was marked by notable irregularities. Observers reported that the courtroom was too small to accommodate the defendant, effectively barring him from attending his own trial . The sentence also includes a ban on using social media, receiving grants, holding meetings, or making public appearances. Violations of these restrictions could result in imprisonment.

Following the verdict, Yensebek announced his departure from Qaznews24, stating he would no longer be involved with the project. His case has drawn criticism from international organizations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists, which expressed concern over the use of vague laws to suppress free expression.

Yensebek’s sentencing highlights the challenges faced by satirists and journalists in Kazakhstan, where authorities have increasingly targeted individuals for content deemed critical or controversial. The case underscores the broader issue of press freedom and the use of legal mechanisms to curtail dissenting voices.

Reference – 

https://thediplomat.com/2025/04/satire-on-trial-temirlan-yensebek-in-kazakh-court-for-using-a-rude-rap-track/

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Kazakh journalist Temirlan Yensebek sentenced to 5 years of restricted freedom