In early 2008 the price of grain in Kazakhstan was rising, and journalist Almas Kusherbaev wrote an article in a local newspaper in which he judged the reason was that producers could get a better return abroad than at home. His argument was supported by data and analysis. The article also mentioned in this connection a company, Agrocentr, which controls a major part of the grain market and which is headed by a senator, Romin Madinov. In August that year Madinov sued Kuzerbaev for libel, demanding damages of 300 million tenge (about US$2.5 million) and was awarded US$250 000. Through the local office of the UNDP, Kusherbaev approached the MLDI, which quickly found a lawyer to represent him. The case is currently before the UN Human Rights Committee.
Recent News
World Press Freedom Day Side Event: Profiling and surveillance, a renewed challenge to freedom of expression
From May 2-4 2024, UNESCO and the government of Chile will host the 31st edition of World Press Freedom Day in Santiago. The global commemorative conference commemorates the vital role of journalism and information access in fostering a sustainable future that upholds diversity of voices. Media Defence is organising a side event at the conference […]
Landmark Ruling: Kenya’s High Court Declares Colonial-era Subversion Laws Unconstitutional
Media Defence welcomes the verdict of the High Court in Nakuru, striking down sections of the Kenyan Penal Code which criminalise subversion, citing them as relics of colonial oppression that curtail freedom of expression. Justice Samwel Mohochi, delivering the judgment, asserted that these provisions were overly broad and vague, stifling dissent rather than serving any […]
UN Rapporteurs Call for Protection of Brazilian Journalist Schirlei Alves
UN Rapporteurs Call for Protection of Brazilian Journalist Schirlei Alves Amid Defamation Charges Stemming from Rape Trial Coverage A letter dispatched by UN rapporteurs to the Brazilian Government calls for protective measures for women journalists covering cases of sexual crimes. The letter also denounces the conviction of Brazilian investigative journalist and women’s rights defender, Schirlei […]