Opposition Intends to Hold Protests in Regions

Baku / 18.04.18 / Turan: The opposition intends to continue the struggle to abolish the extraordinary presidential elections on April 11, which it considers illegitimate. The leader of the Popular Front Party (PFPA), member of the coordinating center of the National Council of Democratic Forces Ali Kerimli, told about this during the Difficult Question program of the Turan news agency.

He noted that on April 14 the opposition had already held the first protest rally "against illegitimate elections".

"We will continue actions demanding free elections. The resolution of the rally on April 14 says we do not recognize these elections and will continue mass actions until electoral reform is implemented, and fair elections are held," Kerimli said. Along with the capital, actions will be held in the regions of Azerbaijan, he said.

Expressing his attitude towards the preliminary conclusion of the OSCE / ODIHR election observation mission on the elections on April 11, he called the report "generally objective".

Is dialogue possible between the authorities and the opposition, if the latter does not recognize the legitimacy of the power? Answering this question, Kerimli said that with the de facto authorities a dialogue "on the transition to democracy" is possible.

As for the possibility of PFPA's participation in the early parliamentary elections, if appointed, Kerimli said the party will determine its position depending on whether the principles of the formation of election commissions will be changed, and freedom of the press and fair competition will be ensured.

"If the situation remains as it is now, then we will not take part in the elections. But if there is an electoral reform, then of course we will take part," Kerimli said.

In his opinion, the policy of the authorities has led to a deep crisis and the growth of tension and aggression in society in relation to the authorities. It is possible to avoid radicalization only through reforms.

According to Kerimli, under the conditions of the accession of an authoritarian and even despotic system, the new government"s image only depends on the first person.

"If Ilham Aliyev does not change his policy, the composition of ministers in his Cabinet will not make any difference," Kerimli said. -06D--