National Council Demands the Release of Political Prisoners

The National Council of Democratic Forces (NCDF) has demanded that authorities stop the repression of opponents and release political prisoners.

The NCDF statement lists the names of all the activists who were arrested or imprisoned for political reasons recently. Among them is Ilgar Mammadov, head of the movement REAL, Tofig Yagublu, deputy chair of Musavat, lawyer Gurban Mammadov, editor in chief of the newspaper Khural Zeinally, Hilal Mammadov, editor in chief of the newspaper Tolyshi Sado, seven activists of the NIDA youth movement, youth activists, a group of Islamists, etc.

Authorities are beginning a new wave of repression, judging by the arrest of Yadigar Sadygov, adviser to the head of the Musavat party, on charges of hooliganism.

Additionally, former MP Huseyn Abdullayev is wanted on trumped up charges. Isa Sadygov, former Deputy Defense Minister, and Akif Muradverdiyev, former manager of the President, have been arrested.

NCDF regards these actions as fear mongering in society, which contributes to the suppression of political activity by citizens.

NCDF condemns this lawlessness and demands the immediate release of all persons arrested for political reasons.

NCDF warns that the increasing political repression by the authorities will fail to prevent people's struggle for freedom and fair presidential elections, the statement says. -03D06-