National Council Does Not Recognize Legitimacy of Parliamentary Elections

The National Council of Democratic Forces (NCDF) called the last November 1 parliamentary elections, "the most shameful in the history of Azerbaijan."

"Even before the elections, it was known that they would not be free or fair. The National Council warned about this. The repressive environment remained during the election campaign. Election commissions were under the control of the authorities," NCDF stated on the evening of November 1.

NCDF said that due to massive violations of the law nearly 500 candidates withdrew their candidacies.

According to NCDF, on the election day the turnout in reality did not exceed 10 percent.

"The government used pre-formed groups of "carousel" to artificially inflate the turnout. There is no doubt that there was pre-compiled list of people to be declared MPs. However, in the eyes of the people and the international community they are not elected MPs, but appointees," NCDF stated.

Next NCDF said that the parliamentary elections on November 1 did not reflect the will of the people, were fully rigged and not legitimate.

"The political power administratively and forcibly seized the legislature and forms it from people who do not enjoy the trust of the people. The National Council states that this is blatant usurpation of power. For more than 20 years of ruling in Azerbaijan, the Aliyev regime has once again taken power away from the people," the statement said. -06D--