Kazakhstan’s Janaozen may face new protests

Janaozen in the Mangistau Region of Kazakhstan may witness new protests, organized by relatives of those who were jailed for the previous protests in December 2011. Protesters plan a hunger strike at the central square of the city. Armed forces have been moved in, Interfax reports.

Locals disappointed with a “soft” punishment for their Mayor Zhalgas Babakhanov plan to join the protests.

The police have been keeping the square closed for the second day.