Trial of Satirical Instagram Account Owner Temirlan Yensebek Begins

The first court hearing in the case of Temirlan Yensebek, the creator of the satirical Instagram page Qaznews24, has commenced after multiple postponements, reports Orda.kz.

The hearing date was announced late yesterday evening.

Additionally, a change of judge occurred, with Serik Bolatkazyevich Kenishev now presiding over the case. 

The previous court session had been postponed due to "family and personal circumstances of the judge."

The court secretary (the third one) again does not answer either journalists or human rights activists. Silence. Not a court, but an exclusive party where outsiders are not allowed. Meanwhile, online courts continue to be imposed, as if it were still 2020 outside the window. Quarantine ended long ago, but someone finds it convenient to keep people at a distance, depriving them of basic rights and normal participation in the process, commented civil activist Asem Zhapisheva explained the situation.

Temirlan is participating in the proceedings remotely, appearing online rather than physically present in the courtroom.

Previously, hearings in Yensebek's case were postponed multiple times. Initially scheduled for February 14, they were moved to February 21, then postponed indefinitely. Despite these delays, the trial finally began on February 27 at 5 p.m.

Temirlan Yensebek faces charges under Article 174 of Kazakhstan's Criminal Code for "Incitement of Interethnic Discord."

The case stems from a post on his satirical Instagram page Qaznews24, which mentioned Tina Kandelaki and included the song "Yo, Orystar."

Public figures and human rights advocates are monitoring the case closely, expressing concerns about potential restrictions on freedom of speech and satirical expression in Kazakhstan.

Orda.kz will continue following developments in this case.

Original Author: Alina Pak