Orda Accounts Attacked Again, Instagram and Facebook Pages Blocked

Both the media and its editor-in-chief are once again facing pressure, Orda.kz reports.

Orda’s Instagram and Facebook accounts have become inaccessible. At the same time, the personal account of editor-in-chief Gulnara Bazhkenova was blocked.

This marks yet another wave of pressure the newsroom has faced in recent months.

We have documented a series of coordinated information attacks — from social media blockages to fake accounts spreading disinformation. Impersonator pages are created in the names of our journalists, advertisements containing their personal data are circulated, and there are ongoing efforts to discredit and intimidate our staff. These actions are accompanied by direct threats and attempts at a hostile takeover.

One recent tactic involved spreading a fake advertisement for a free children’s summer camp, falsely listing our office address. As a result, dozens of people arrived at our building.

Attempts to block Orda’s website are ongoing, alongside technical disruptions and a continued smear campaign.

Our newsroom continues its work. We remain in touch with our audience via our Telegram channel and through the Orda.kz website. 

Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva has called such attacks a serious threat to independent journalism.

Original Author: Ruslan Loginov