What are the goals of the Third Republic Platform?

Bakı/13.12.23/Turan:  On December 7, commemorating the 105th anniversary of parliamentarism in Azerbaijan, a cohort of public and political figures came together to establish the III Republican Platform. This pivotal moment saw the election of a Founding Committee entrusted with steering the platform's activities. The committee, comprising seven members—Akif Gurbanov, Araz Aliyev, Elman Fettah, Rovshan Aghayev, Ruslan Izzetli, Samad Rahimli, and Yadigar Sadigli—sets out to redefine the trajectory of governance in the nation.

Speaking on the Difficult Question program, Samad Rahimli, one of the founders, outlined the primary objectives of the Republic III Platform. The platform envisions a shift from the current management system towards a self-governing society, with the pillars of the republican system, secularism, and decentralization forming the bedrock of this transformation. Rahimli asserted that this triad of components collectively holds the key to addressing Azerbaijan's challenges comprehensively.

Central to the platform's philosophy is the belief that the Central Government should emerge from fair democratic elections, reflecting the will of the people. The III Platform advocates for a judicious equilibrium among the three branches of government—the legislative, executive, and judicial authorities.

Addressing the imminent presidential elections, Rahimli clarified that the III Platform has yet to adopt a definitive position on participation or non-participation in the electoral process. He emphasized that discussions surrounding this matter are ongoing, and any decision will be made collectively. Rahimli noted, "If, as a result of the discussions, a decision is made to participate in the presidential elections, then, in order to promote the elections as a democratic process, we will certainly take part in them."

Setting themselves apart from other Republican-oriented parties, the III Platform places strong emphasis on decentralization as its defining feature. Rahimli highlighted their proposal for a radical redistribution of powers between the central government and regional entities. He underlined that their commitment to "political participation" is the pathway to success, distinguishing them from other parties by their perpetual engagement in civic affairs rather than periodic bursts around election cycles.

In a departure from traditional party dynamics, the Republic III Platform envisions sustained activism, fostering an enduring presence and impact beyond electoral events.