BISHKEK. The authors of a new book series entitled 'Anthology of Political Persecutions In Kazakhstan' today presented their books during a press conference in Bishkek. Andrei Sviridov, an author and editor, Kazis Toguzbaev, executive director of the International Foundation For Protection Of Political Prisoners In Kazakhstan, Rozlana Taukina, president of Foundation 'Journalists In Calamity', and Leonid Rempel, executive director of ANESMICA (Bishkek) were the main organizers and participants of the event. The speakers told journalists that Sergei Duvanov, a prominent Kazakh journalist and human rights campaigner, is being persecuted for his criticism of corruption in Kazakhstan. They praised Kyrgyz opposition politician, leader of the 'Erkindik' (Freedom) Party Topchubek Turgunaliev, who came to Almaty to participate at the court processes against Duvanov, but the court did not allow him and other human rights campaigners to enter the court room. Then Turgunaliev made a speech at the Almaty party devoted to birthday of jailed Duvanov. Kazakh opposition members appealed to the opposition forces and independent mass media of the two countries to be united and more cooperative with each other.
Duvanov was sentenced by the Karasai district court of the Almaty region for 3.5 years jail on January 28. The Almaty regional court is expected to begin hearing on his appeal in March.
Duvanov was sentenced by the Karasai district court of the Almaty region for 3.5 years jail on January 28. The Almaty regional court is expected to begin hearing on his appeal in March.