Imprisoned journalist Duman Mukhammedkarim attempts self-harm twice, demands Almaty transfer
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Imprisoned Kazakh journalist Duman Mukhammedkarim has attempted self-harm twice in solitary confinement at prison No. 60 in Kyzylorda, demanding a transfer to Almaty. He swallowed batteries and pills and threatened further radical actions if not moved.
The Self-Harm Attempts
Mukhammedkarim reported two separate incidents in July 2026. On July 15, he ingested two handfuls of medication, then an additional dose, and was taken to hospital for gastric lavage—an episode he claims was not officially registered. On July 20, at 17:00, he swallowed six button batteries, a lighter, and other foreign objects, warning that if he survives surgery he will take 'even more radical actions.' He has been held in an 8-square-metre solitary cell since December 19, 2024.
Demand for Transfer
Mukhammedkarim insists he be moved to a prison in Almaty, citing legal provisions. In a written statement, he said, 'I demand that, in accordance with the law, I be transferred to an Almaty prison.' He has not left the solitary cell since late 2024, and his health status following the battery ingestion remains unconfirmed by official sources. Vlast.kz reported his claims on July 27.
Conviction and Background
Mukhammedkarim is an opposition journalist and author of the YouTube channel Ne Deidi, known for critical political videos. He ran for parliament in 2023. In 2024, a court sentenced him to seven years in prison for 'financing extremism' and 'participation in a banned organization,' with a simultaneous three-year ban on public-political activity. The case relied on interviews with exiled politician Mukhtar Ablyazov. An appeal was rejected in November 2024, and he was transferred to the Kyzylorda facility at the end of that year.
What's Next
Authorities have not publicly responded to Mukhammedkarim’s demands or the self-harm incidents. It remains unclear whether he will be transferred to Almaty or face further disciplinary measures, while rights groups may raise concerns over his treatment.
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Imprisoned journalist Duman Mukhammedkarim attempts self-harm twice, demands Almaty transfer
