According to an October 9, 2026 report by Uyghur Post, photographs and videos circulating on Chinese social media confirmed the release of Uyghur singer and musician Ablajan Awut Ayup. The report, written by Tahir Imin, described photographs on Douyin showing him with fellow Uyghur artists and friends.
A New Song Released
The report said its investigation also examined images and videos provided by Uyghur activist and former camp detainee Zumret Dawut. Following his public reappearance, Ablajan released a Chinese-language song and music video titled “完美,” or “Perfect.” He also performed in both Uyghur and Chinese before his detention.
Detained in 2018
Known particularly among children and young people, Ablajan combined Uyghur cultural traditions with contemporary pop music. He was detained in February 2018. Information published in December 2022 indicated that he had received an 11-year prison sentence beginning in 2018.
The English version of the release report noted that some social media users had previously claimed he was freed in February 2026. However, it provided no documentation establishing the exact date, grounds for release or his current legal status.
