The trial against 67-year-old Kazakh pastor Bakhytzhan Kashkumbayev has started, eight months after his incarceration for allegedly “harming the health” of a member of his congregation.
The pastor has also been accused of inciting hatred, propagating extremism and leading an organisation that harms others. If found guilty, he could face a lengthy prison term.
Kashkumbayev denied all charges against him at a court hearing in Astana, the capital, on Jan. 22.
The trial was adjourned until Jan. 31 to allow Kashkumbayev’s lawyer some time to study the case materials.
Source: Forum 18