Karakalpak Human Rights Defender Aqulbek Muratbai Arrested: Concerns and Calls for Action

On 15th February 2024, the human rights community was shaken by the arrest of Aqulbek Muratbai, a prominent Karakalpak human rights defender and community leader, in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Authorities plan to extradite him to Uzbekistan, where he faces severe charges under questionable circumstances. This incident underscores the ongoing repression faced by activists in the region and demands urgent attention.

Aqulbek Muratbai has been a vocal advocate for the rights of the Karakalpak people, particularly since the onset of protests in July 2022 against Uzbekistan's policies towards Karakalpakstan. Amidst reports of violent suppression by Uzbek authorities, Muratbai's efforts to raise awareness and support Karakalpak activists have made him a target of persecution. Living in exile in Kazakhstan, he has provided invaluable assistance to those fleeing oppression in Uzbekistan.

The recent arrest by Kazakhstani authorities, acting on an interstate warrant from Uzbekistan, raises serious concerns about Muratbai's safety and the impartiality of the legal process. Allegations of charges related to "threats to public safety and order" appear to be thinly veiled attempts to silence dissent and stifle legitimate activism. If extradited, Muratbai faces the grim prospect of a severe prison sentence, highlighting the dire consequences faced by those who dare to challenge authoritarian regimes.

The situation in Karakalpakstan is dire, with reports of targeted persecution against human rights defenders and activists mounting since the protests in 2022. The sentencing of Dauletmurat Tajimuratov in January 2023 and the ongoing pressure on Muratbai demonstrate a pattern of systematic repression aimed at quashing dissent and maintaining control. Such actions not only violate fundamental human rights but also undermine the principles of democracy and justice.

In response to these alarming developments, Oasis World Vision (OWV) has issued a fervent call to action. Urging authorities in both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to uphold their international obligations, OWV demands the immediate release of Aqulbek Muratbai and the cessation of all forms of harassment against him. Furthermore, they implore Uzbekistan to respect the rights of all human rights defenders and ensure their safety and freedom from persecution.

OWV underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for international attention and intervention. The arrest of Aqulbek Muratbai is not an isolated incident but part of a broader crackdown on dissent in the region. It is imperative that the international community stands in solidarity with Muratbai and other activists facing similar persecution, advocating for their rights and holding accountable those responsible for their unjust treatment.

By #martin Nkoyi Beele

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