OSCE Media Freedom Representative welcomes release of journalist in Kazakhstan, voices concern about banning practice of profession

VIENNA, 7 September 2017 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir today welcomed the release of Zhanbolat Mamay, acting Chief Editor of the newspaper Sayasi Kalam Tribuna in Kazakhstan, but voiced concern about the imposition of a ban on practicing the profession of journalism.    

“I am relieved that Mamay is now free, but I note that he is banned for three years from engaging in any kind of journalistic activity”, said Désir. “Such a ban is a violation of OSCE principles regarding freedom of the media,” he said. 

On 10 February 2017 Mamay was detained on charges of assisting in money laundering. According to the court verdict today, he was found guilty under Art. 193 of the Criminal Code of “legalization of monetary funds or other property acquired illegally”. According to the verdict, Mamay was sentenced to a three-year suspended sentence and confiscation of property. In addition, he was sentenced to 120 hours of community service.

The Representative has previously addressed Mamay’s arrest with the authorities and noted his concerns about the case, including those also expressed by various civil society and media organizations. 

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.