Civil society activists demand the release of journalist and human rights activist P.Hashimli

A large group of civil society activists in Azerbaijan demanded the release of Parviz Hashimli, the correspondent of «Bizim Yol" newspaper, the head of the site moderator.az, a member of the Popular Front Party, head of the Center to Defend Political and Civil rights.

He was arrested on September 17 under the Articles 206.3.2 (smuggling in collusion) and 228.2.1 (illegal possession, purchase and sale of firearms and ammunition.)

The statements of the civil society activists noted that the arrest of Hashimli, searches at his workplace and home, were accompanied by serious violations of his human rights. He had not been explained his rights, and was not provided with a trusted lawyer. During the arrest Hashimli was subjected to physical and moral pressure. During a search in his house the representatives of the National Security Ministry ill-treated Hashimli’s wife and his small child as, a result of the fear they suffered stress.

The journalists who were performing their professional duties outside Hashimli’s house during a search were also subjected to ill-treatment.  When Hashimli was taken to court, he was put a black bag o his head. 

In court, Hashimli told that pressure was made him, to make his speak against several opposition leaders. The statement authors condemn the actions committed against Hashimli and his family members, and regard it as a violation of national and international laws.

They believe that the charges against Hashimli are unfounded and politically motivated, and link it to his professional activities and civil position. 

The statement authors regard the arrest of Hashimli as a continued repression against youth activists, journalists and opposition members, and demand to stop them.

The statement demanded to remove all charges against Hashimli, and release him. The statement was signed by more than 20 human rights activists and experts.

Public Union for Enlightenment on Human Rights, led by the human rights defender Irada Javadova, also made a statement of protest against the arrest of Hashimli. 

This NGO sees  political motives  in the arrest of Hashimli, and believes that the  provisions of the European Convention on Human Rights,  in particular Article 3, which prohibits torture and other forms of inhuman and degrading treatment, have been violated.—06D--