The harsh ten-year sentences handed down by a court in Azerbaijan to young political activists Giyas Ibrahimov and Bayram Mammedov, along with allegations of ill-treatment during their detention, are particularly worrying. The European Union has been following their cases closely and was present at both their trials, including the latter's hearing yesterday in Baku.
Giyas Ibrahimov and Bayram Mammadov, who were not previously convicted of any crimes, were arrested the day after an act of political graffiti, which both have admitted. They continue to deny the drug-related charges for which they have now been sentenced.
The European Union expects the authorities in Azerbaijan to review these cases in a fair and transparent manner, in full respect of the country's international commitments. Allegations of ill-treatment or torture must be thoroughly, independently and effectively investigated. -0-
Politics
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On the evening of February 5, it was reported that journalist Shahnaz Beylargizi had been arrested. She had been a presenter on the Toplum TV channel for several years. After a criminal case was initiated against the channel in March 2024 and nearly all of its staff were arrested, Beylargizi was questioned multiple times. According to relatives, the police conducted a search of her apartment.
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By a presidential decree dated February 5, Mukhtar Babaev has been appointed the presidential representative for climate issues.
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On February 5, President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree to provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine. According to the document, the Ministry of Energy has been allocated 1 million US dollars to purchase and send electrical equipment, manufactured in Azerbaijan, to Ukraine.
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The trial of Aziz Orudjev, the head of the online publication Kanal-13, continued on February 5 at the Sabail District Court.
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