Aqylbek Muratbai, a commentator on the rights crisis in Uzbekistan's autonomous region of Karakalpakstan, is in detention in Almaty after being arrested at Tashkent’s behest, charged with crimes against public order. His is the latest in a series of arrests of Kazakh-based activists from the region.
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Muratbai has been a vital voice in calling attention to Uzbekistan’s persecution of the Karakalpak people. His detention in Kazakhstan is yet another warning shot.
Once an important oasis welcomed by weary travellers – and equally feared for its reputation for ruthless slave trading – Khiva is undeservedly overshadowed by Bukhara and Samarkand.