Journalist in Tajikistan Faces Severe Charges
A journalist in Tajikistan stands accused in what local authorities describe as a “secret” case, potentially leading to a 17-year prison sentence, according to Human Rights Watch. The organization urges Tajik authorities to dismiss the charges against Ruhshona Khakimova, an investigative journalist involved with the National Association of Independent Mass Media of Tajikistan.
Allegations of Treason and House Arrest
According to reports, Khakimova may face treason charges linked to a survey she conducted regarding China’s influence in Tajikistan. However, due to a non-disclosure agreement, neither Khakimova nor her lawyer can share specifics. Though she has been placed under house arrest because of her infant child, the court has confiscated her identity documents.
Political Context and Family Ties
Khakimova is related to Shokirjon Khakimov, a human rights lawyer and deputy chair of the opposition Social Democratic Party, who was arrested in July 2024 during a crackdown on political dissent labeled the “coup d’état case.” All detained individuals face grave charges of high treason for purportedly plotting to seize power.
Increasing Press Repression
As reported by Human Rights Watch, media freedom in Tajikistan has sharply declined. This is illustrated by the arrest of Ahmad Ibrohim, editor of Payk, who received a ten-year sentence, following closed-door proceedings. Other journalists face similar fates, finding themselves imprisoned under politically motivated charges aimed at silencing dissenting voices.
Escalating Attacks on Media Freedom
Currently, seven other journalists in Tajikistan also serve prison sentences for their critical reporting work. Notable cases include Ulfatkhonim Mamadshoeva, sentenced to 21 years on dubious charges. Authorities routinely block websites critical of the government, inhibiting free expression in the press.
Call for Action from Human Rights Watch
Human Rights Watch emphasizes that Tajik authorities must honor freedom of expression and cease retaliating against journalists. They stress that critical voices are vital in nurturing democracy. “The authorities should remember that critical voices and opinions are the cornerstone of a democratic society,” asserted Syinat Sultanalieva, the organization’s Central Asia researcher.
A Tajik journalist, Ruhshona Khakimova, faces severe charges linked to a secret investigation, potentially leading to 17 years in prison. Human Rights Watch urges the government to drop the charges and respect press freedom. Khakimova’s family ties to a political figure compound the risk, with several journalists imprisoned under politically motivated accusations. Authorities continue to suppress dissenting voices and critical reporting.
Tajikistan is experiencing heightened restrictions on press freedoms, with journalists facing severe penalties for their work. Notably, Ruhshona Khakimova is embroiled in a secretive case that could lead to significant prison time. Human rights organizations are calling for her release and the dismissal of charges against her, while also emphasizing the importance of press freedom in democratic societies.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
