Qaraganda Businesswoman Detained on Suspicion of Inciting Ethnic Discord

Qaraganda businesswoman Alika Mukhamadieva, who gained notoriety after making controversial comments on Threads, has been placed in a temporary detention facility on suspicion of inciting ethnic discord, Orda.kz reports, citing journalist Syrym Itkulov’s Facebook post.

Mukhamadieva’s remarks on Threads sparked a strong backlash from users who found them provocative and offensive.

The woman owns a package delivery company specializing in shipments from China, as well as a store selling clothing, shoes, and accessories. Following widespread criticism, she published a video in which she publicly apologized.

I understand that my words have caused great offense and disappointment, and I am ashamed that I made such a mistake. Kazakhstan is my native country, where I was born and have lived my entire life. I have many friends in Qaraganda of Kazakh nationality, I have employees, partners, and I did not want to offend any of you in any way,Mukhamadieva said. 

She also stated that she began receiving threats after her comments were posted.

I beg you all to stop this bullying on social networks, I am very afraid for the lives of my loved ones, because there were messages from angry men who wrote to me that they would find my parents, my family. I am the only one to blame, and I understood this so strongly that I hope this will serve as a lesson for everyone.

According to Syrym Itkulov, Mukhamadieva has been charged under Article 174 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan — "Incitement of social, national, tribal, racial or religious discord."

The offense carries a penalty of two to seven years of restricted freedom or imprisonment.

Original Author: Alina Pak