Oral Officials Deny Activists’ Request to Hold Rally on Republic Day

In Oral, civil activists Bekbulat Utebayev and Roza Kariyeva intended to hold a peaceful rally on October 25, Republic Day, to address social concerns such as rising food and utility costs, as well as low pensions and benefits, Orda.kz reports.

The activists submitted their application on September 22.

Two days later, however, the city administration rejected the request. In an official response, Oral Deputy Akim Aslan Tapishev explained that the chosen location — the “Glorious Daughters of Kazakhstan” square — had already been booked for other activities.

In this regard, the Oral Akimat has decided to deny your requested rally. Furthermore, the Akimat is unable to provide you with an alternative site, as all alternative locations have already been occupied for Republic Day events on October 25, Tapishev stated.

According to the deputy akim, youth group Jastar Ruhy had scheduled an “Open Mic” and a “Quest” at the same time and place. He also warned that uncoordinated rallies carry administrative penalties.

This is not the first time activists have faced rejection. On August 25, Utebayev and Kariyeva were similarly denied permission to hold a rally on Constitution Day.

Original Author: Alina Pshenichnaya