Azerbaijan: Opposition activist released

17 May 12 | Azerbaijan News, Europe and Central Asia, Index Index, minipost

An Azerbaijani activist who was sentenced to two years in prison following demonstrations in Baku last year, has been released before completing his jail term. Elnur Majidli, an opposition activist, was charged with disturbing public order after his involvement in protests that took place on 3 April last year. Majidli made a formal request to be released, and in a hearing on 15 May was granted release. In an interview with an opposition newspaper, Majidli said his release was “unexpected”.

Azerbaijan: Index writer arrested ahead of Eurovision

15 May 12 | Azerbaijan News, Europe and Central Asia, Index Index, minipost

Index on Censorship writer and youth activist Turgut Gambar was among activists arrested yesterday (14 May) during a demonstration in Baku, Azerbaian. Police violently dispersed peaceful protests ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest which will take place later this month. Specifically targeting opposition party members, police beat demonstrators at rallies in Sabir Garden in front of the city authorities’ offices. Around 300 protesters gathered to call for the release of Azerbaijan’s political prisoners.

Azerbaijan: Journalist Zaur Guliyev claims he was tortured in prison

27 Apr 12 | Azerbaijan News, Europe and Central Asia, Index Index, minipost

An Azerbaijani journalist held in pre-trial detention since March claims he has been tortured. Zaur Guliyev, editor-in-chief of Xayal TV, was arrested after unrest in the Quba region. In a statement, Guliyev said he was subjected to physical and psychological intimidation whilst being held by the Interior Ministry in Baku. The journalist told For Human Rights that he had been refused medical treatment, and experienced extended interrogations and inhumane prison conditions. Guliyev faces three years in prison for violating public order and abuse of authority.