Regional Deputy Files Assault Charges Against Activist

A confrontation between an Atyrau regional maslikhat deputy and a social activist has turned into criminal court case following what began as a social media dispute.

The incident started when Deputy Syrymbek Sarsembayev posted on Facebook praising a colleague's flood relief efforts in Qulsary.

Sandugash Kukenova, who heads the Analarga Komek Public Foundation, criticized the post and requested a face-to-face meeting to discuss their differences.

During their meeting, disliking the activist's questions, Sarsembayev attempted to leave abruptly. 

Kukenova allegedly grabbed and tore his badge to prevent him from leaving. The deputy interpreted this as assault and filed a police report.

The case is now being heard in criminal court under Article 109, Part 1 of Kazakhstan's Criminal Code for assault and battery charges.

Original Author: Daniel Arturov