The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention accepted a petition arguing that Massimov’s arrest and detention qualify as politically motivated and that he is being denied adequate legal protection.
The petition contains a request to the UN Working Group to send an urgent appeal to the Government of Kazakhstan, in accordance with UN Commission on Human Rights Resolution 1997/50, to recommend that Kazakhstan release Karim Massimov, and provide an opportunity for full protection in court, in accordance with paragraph 2 of Article 13 of the Constitution of Kazakhstan.
This question concerns not only Karim Massimo, but the fate of thousands of citizens persecuted and illegally detained in the aftermath of the January protests. The fact that the petition is being considered by the UN gives hope to all victims of illegal detentions.
