PM Karim Massimov speaks up for free speech online

Kazkahstan’s Prime Minister Karim Massimov has instructed the Ministry of Communications and Information to promote free speech online, Tengrinews.kz reports. Today, March 24, the Kazakhstan’s Government has approved of a new program to counteract corruption. When unveiling the document, Kairat Kozhamkarov, Head of Financial Police, said that the Program seeks to shape a “counter-corruption worldview”. To this end, the Internet, mobile communications and conventional media are to be involved. The Program suggests many of public services be rendered electronically, which leaves less room for corruption, according to Mr. Kozhamkarov. PM Karim Massimov believes that free speech, especially online, should play a greater role in tackling corruption. According to the PM, the new Program envisages evolvement of the civil society, a major instrument of counter-corruption initiatives. Mr. Massimov has instructed the Ministry of Communications and Information to promote free speech. Free speech online should be of prime importance, according to him. “Transparency and openness… the world has grown more transparent thanks to the Internet”, Mr. Massimov said.