Azerbaijan Prepares for Early Elections Amid Opposition Hesitation

Since December 9, Azerbaijan has commenced early presidential elections scheduled for February 7. Notably, only the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (NAP) has officially declared its participation, nominating President Ilham Aliyev for his fifth presidential bid, a position he has held since 2003.

Tahir Budagov, Deputy Chairman and Head of the Central Office of NAP, confirmed that the party's Board would soon meet to formally nominate Aliyev as the presidential candidate. While the opposition parties in the country have not yet confirmed their participation, they cite a challenging political climate as a factor influencing their decision.

Seymur Hazi, Deputy Chairman of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), told Azadlig Radio that a decision regarding their involvement in the election process would be made during the upcoming party Congress on December 16. Hazi noted the complexities surrounding this election, pointing to recent arrests of media representatives, civil society figures, and party activists, along with over 200 political prisoners in the country.

The Musavat Party, led by Arif Hajili, also expressed reservations about participation in the current situation. Hajili stated that ongoing discussions and consultations within the party, coupled with public opinion surveys, would play a crucial role in their decision-making process. The party has until January 8 to submit the necessary documents, should they choose to participate.

The ruling NAP remains confident in Aliyev's candidacy, with Elman Nasirov, a member of the party's control and Inspection Commission, told Turan that President Aliyev will run as the sole candidate of the NAP. Nasirov attributed the opposition's hesitancy to the high approval ratings of President Aliyev, particularly in light of recent territorial victories and the liberation of lands from occupation. He suggested that international forecasts indicate Aliyev could receive up to 90 percent of the votes in the upcoming elections.

As consultations continue within opposition parties, the political landscape in Azerbaijan remains tense, with discussions centered around the perceived challenges to a free and fair electoral process. The international community is keenly watching developments as the country prepares for a pivotal electoral period.