Temirlan Ensebek Faces Seven-Year Sentence for Satirical Instagram Page.

In January 2025, Kazakh authorities arrested Temirlan Ensebek, the creator of the satirical page QazNews24, known for its ironic publications on politics and society. He has been charged under Article 174 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan—“inciting interethnic discord,” which carries penalties ranging from fines and restrictions to imprisonment for two to seven years. (rus.azattyq.org)

The arrest of Ensebek has sparked protests among journalists and activists. Many have staged single-person pickets holding signs that read “Satire is not a crime,” expressing solidarity with the author. However, some of these protestors have also been detained and subjected to administrative penalties. (novayagazeta.ru)

International human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have called on Kazakh authorities to release Ensebek and stop prosecuting him for his satirical work. They emphasize that satire is a legitimate form of expression and should not be treated as a crime.

The court proceedings in Ensebek’s case have been repeatedly postponed. Originally scheduled for February 14, the trial was moved to February 21 due to “personal circumstances of the presiding judge.” However, a new hearing date has not yet been announced. (rus.azattyq.org)

Temirlan Ensebek’s case raises serious concerns about freedom of speech and the limits of satire in Kazakhstan. Many fear that prosecuting individuals for satirical statements could set a dangerous precedent for restricting free expression in the country.