Melis Aspekov
Political activist, former politician
Serving 7-year sentence in prison
Criminal Code Article 278 – Organizing mass unrest
Melis Aspekov has faced multiple criminal cases over nearly a decade. In 2016, he was convicted of hooliganism and sentenced to five years. In 2021, he was convicted of extortion and fraud and later released by presidential pardon in 2023. In September 2023, he was arrested again on charges of organizing mass unrest. On 28 February 2024, the Pervomaisky District Court sentenced him to seven years in a high-security colony. Aspekov denies all charges and claims political persecution due to his shifting political alliances and criticism of the authorities.
Aspekov has been held in pre-detention centre 1 and later in Correctional Colony No. 47 and a strict-regime colony in Moldovanovka. Communication with family and the outside world has been limited. Despite restrictions, video statements attributed to him were published online, causing public controversy. Prison conditions are harsh, with limited access to healthcare and strict isolation.
Aspekov suffered a heart attack while in detention in 2021. He underwent heart surgery at a private clinic (“Bikard”) after his condition became critical. He continues to suffer from cardiovascular disease and requires constant medical supervision. Stress, poor prison conditions, and limited access to specialized cardiology care pose ongoing risks to his life and health.
