Press Review 09/27/2016

The difference of opinion on the referendum to amend the Constitution, the threat of devaluation and the low public wages are the leading topics of today's press.

The newspaper Azerbaijan refers to the referendum as new manifestation of people's trust in Ilham Aliyev, and not just amendments to the Constitution. The author touches upon the insidious plans against the statehood of Azerbaijan. Here the author, in all probability, also means the organization Freedom House, arguing that today a new level of public building has started in Azerbaijan.

The site of the newspaper Azadlig, Azadliq.info, has published an article entitled Transparent Falsification, which examines the facts of falsification during the vote on 26 September. The author argues that the Constitution was imposed a plastic surgery operation, not for rejuvenation, but vice versa, and now it is more like the past.

This time, the falsification was more transparent, while the CEC data are never credible. It is noteworthy that teachers prevailed in the election commissions.

Novoye Vremya publishes an article about the situation in the banking system and the optimism of the main banker Elman Rustamov.

The population does not trust the local banks and the head of the Central Bank Elman Rustamov and his optimism is perceived with caution as just another trick. In particular, the words that the Financial Stability Board is taking the necessary steps for the stability of the manat are perceived this way.

While acknowledging that the 6 billion AZN of deficit in the balance of payments creates a lot of tension and puts pressure on the foreign exchange reserves and the exchange rate, Rustamov said the talks about new devaluation are unfounded.

Bizim Yol writes about the salaries that do not correspond to the prevailing high prices. Polls prove popular frustration with the level of salaries.

Taking into account inflation and risks, social programs to increase pensions and salaries should be continued. Experts believe that the pensions, stipends and other social benefits should be indexed in line with inflation.