Uzbekistan: Mounting Concerns About Health And Safety Of Imprisoned Karakalpak Activist Dauletmurat Tazhimuratov – OpEd
The Association for Human Rights in Central Asia (AHRCA), International Partnership for Human Rights (IPHR), and the Norwegian Helsinki Committee (NHC) are alarmed by reports indicating that the health of imprisoned Karakalpak lawyer, journalist and human rights defender Dauletmurat Tazhimuratov has sharply declined due to his treatment in prison and that prison authorities are now seeking to further isolate him, prompting renewed fears for his health. The organisations call on the Uzbekistani authorities to take prompt steps to safeguard his well-being and safety.
In a video statement published on 8 February 2026, Dauletmurat Tazhimuratov’s sister, Maria Tazhimuratova, highlighted concerns that the defender has endured harsh detention conditions and repeatedly been subjected to physical and psychological pressure during his three years in Prison Colony No. 11 in Navoi Region. According to her, this has resulted in a serious deterioration in his health, including difficulties eating due to persistent illness after meals, significant weight loss (approximately 25 kg since his arrest) and general weakness. In what........
