On 20 July 2026, the Head of the Information Policy Service of the Presidential Administration published a Facebook post accusing groups of social media users of spreading false information and “anti-China” narratives. The post included collages showing names, dates of birth, social media accounts and photographs of civil society representatives, journalists, human rights defenders, political commentators and activists. The official warned that those who continued such activity could be identified, detained and imprisoned.
Media reports noted that the original post grouped individuals according to alleged links with opposition figures and civil society organisations (CSOs). Several people included in the collages also reportedly observed that some photographs had never been publicly available and appeared to match ID photographs stored in the state “Tunduk” system. This raised concerns about possible unauthorised access to and use of state-held personal data. As of 22 July, the authorities had not publicly explained the source of the photographs. In response, lawyer Nurbek Toktakunov issued an open appeal to President Sadyr Japarov, requesting an independent investigation into the possible misuse of personal data and an assessment of whether Orunbekov’s statements breached civil service standards.
The incident raises serious concerns about freedom of expression, digital privacy and the safety of civil society actors. By publicly targeting individuals engaged in legitimate criticism and advocacy, it risks creating a climate of intimidation and self-censorship that undermines civic participation and further restricts the enabling environment for civil society.