Gubad Ibadoglu's Family Shares Disturbing Details and International Efforts Amidst Controversial Charges

In a shocking turn of events, the detention, subsequent arrest, and conviction of renowned economist Gubad Ibadoglu on July 23, 2023, have stirred a wave of disbelief within the democratic public. The prominent professor, known for his affiliations with foreign universities, now faces accusations of ties to a deceased political opponent of R.T. Erdogan in the United States and involvement in the production, acquisition, or sale of counterfeit money by an organized group. These allegations, deemed absurd by many, only serve to strengthen suspicions that Ibadoglu is being targeted for his investigations into the economic activities of the Azerbaijani elite.

Throughout the five months of the investigation, no evidence of Ibadoglu's guilt has emerged, reinforcing the steadfast belief of his legal team and family in his innocence. Gubad Ibadoglu's brother, Ghalib Togrul, shared insights with the Turan news agency regarding the circumstances of the accused professor's detention, the conditions of his confinement, and the family's efforts to secure his release.

Held in a cell at the Baku pre-trial detention center in the village of Zabrat alongside two other defendants, Gubad Ibadoglu faces challenging conditions. The accused's family, with concerns about his well-being, sought intervention from international entities such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, the European Union Mission, and the Norwegian Embassy. Regrettably, the authorities denied permission for external scrutiny.

Ghalib Togrul disclosed that minimal living conditions in the cell are compounded by the draughtiness caused by a poorly closed door to an isolated balcony. Despite requests to address this issue, no action has been taken. Restrictions on food transfers have been lifted, allowing Ibadoglu to consume food and water brought by his family due to the unsuitability of the water supplied to the cell for drinking.

The professor's health has been a source of concern, with reports of exacerbated diabetes mellitus, a rare second type characterized by insulin production but impaired utilization. Gubad Ibadoglu's brother emphasized that the accused requires mobility, yet restrictions on walks and the stress of incarceration contribute to severe pain and potential balance issues. Attempts to use a walking stick have been denied, raising suspicions of decisions being imposed from higher authorities.

While prison staff reportedly maintain a normal attitude towards Gubad Ibadoglu, concerns have been raised regarding the handling of crucial documentation, including an explanation drafted for the International Court of Justice of the European Union. Despite the accused's detailed document composed in English, it was allegedly confiscated and not transferred to the EU court.

International support for Gubad Ibadoglu remains robust, with backing from embassies and the academic and political communities, particularly in the UK, Germany, and the USA. Efforts to secure his release have extended to the legislative level, with the Senate of the American state of New Jersey introducing a bill on sanctions against Azerbaijan in response to Ibadoglu's arrest.

Ghalib Togrul expressed hope for Gubad Ibadoglu's imminent release, suggesting that circumstances, which he couldn't elaborate on, might contribute to this outcome. The family continues to believe in the professor's innocence, aiming to convince the authorities that his arrest was based on erroneous and false information, despite the persistent actions of the Azerbaijani government negatively impacting the country's image.