In clear violation of the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, police rounded up scores of would-be protestors – as well as journalists covering the events – attempting to take part in peaceful demonstrations planned across Kazakhstan on Saturday 21 May. While most of those detained at police stations were eventually released without charge, a small number received fines or a period of administrative detention under Article 488 of the Administrative Offences Code, for “violation of the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan on organizing and holding peaceful assemblies”.
