Kazakh opposition activist dies in detention

A Kazakh anti-government activist has died in a police detention center, authorities said on Tuesday, dismissing any suspicion of foul play. The Interior Ministry said Dulat Agadil, aged in his early 40s, died from what was believed to be an acute cardiovascular failure in a cell in Nur-Sultan after police took him in late on Monday.

Agadil took part in a series of anti-government protests last year and was arrested at least twice. In its statement, the ministry said police detained him again after he failed to show up for questioning over charges of contempt of court and insulting a judge. "There were four people other than him in the detention centre cell where he (Agadil) was placed, who have testified that no acts of violence have taken place against him," it said, adding that doctors found no injuries on the man's body.

Public protests demanding greater political freedom and change of government in the oil-rich former Soviet republic have intensified since the resignation of President Nursultan Nazarbayev last March after almost three decades in power. Nazarbayev, who retains sweeping powers, nominated close ally Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as successor, ensuring his victory in a subsequent snap election.

The ministry said it was still investigating the circumstances of Agadil's death. There was no immediate comment from relatives or fellow activists, who were planning to rally outside the police facility.

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