InfoHub Logo

The Prosecutor General's Office of Kazakhstan has issued a strong call for citizens to adhere strictly to the law when expressing their opinions, especially on online platforms and public information resources. This directive comes in response to a rise in negative sentiments and divisive rhetoric concerning national traditions and the Nauryz holiday.

Concerns Over Disrespectful Nauryz Commentary

The office has noted instances where individuals have disseminated unfavorable opinions about Nauryz, a holiday with centuries of history, often linking these views to distorted interpretations of religious dogma. The Prosecutor General's Office emphasized that such statements contradict the constitutional principles of Kazakhstan as a secular state and can harm societal, interfaith, and interethnic harmony, while also discrediting national customs.

Media and Blogger Accountability

Particular attention is being drawn to the responsibility of journalists, bloggers, and platform owners who provide a public forum for individuals expressing provocative or false religious claims. The office highlighted that publishing such content can contribute to the spread of misinformation, promote extremist ideologies, and demean women.

Media representatives are urged to uphold professional ethics, objectivity, and refrain from using their platforms to promote ideas that could disrupt public accord.

Legal Ramifications for Spreading False Information

The Prosecutor General's Office reminded the public of legal consequences for disseminating deliberately false information that could impact public order and citizens' rights. Article 274 of the Criminal Code, concerning the spread of knowingly false information, carries penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment for up to seven years.

Furthermore, public statements aimed at inciting social, national, tribal, racial, class, or religious discord are addressed under Article 174 of the Criminal Code, potentially leading to imprisonment from two to seven years. Violations of the law on religious activities and associations can also result in administrative liability under Article 490 of the Code of Administrative Offenses.

A Call for National Unity

Kazakhstan's citizens are implored not to spread misinformation, to respect cultural and national values, and to avoid making statements that could incite conflict. The authorities have pledged to take strict measures against any violations of the law.

This statement follows a recent incident in the Almaty region where a blogger was detained after posting a controversial video questioning the celebration of Nauryz, labeling it a non-Muslim holiday. A criminal case was initiated against the individual on suspicion of inciting religious discord.