The Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum issued a strong condemnation of the arrest of Gubad Ibadoglu

Baku/25.07.23/Turan:  The Azerbaijan National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum has issued a strong condemnation of the arrest of Gubad Ibadoghlu on July 23, 2023. Gubad Ibadoghlu is a current member and former national coordinator of the platform from 2012 to 2014. The National Platform demands his immediate release.

The platform also expresses its outrage at the use of force and inhumane treatment against Gubad Ibadoghlu and his spouse, Irade Bayramova, during their detention by officers of the Internal Affairs Ministry's Main Department for Combating Organized Crime. They call for a prompt and impartial investigation into this matter by the government.

Additionally, the National Platform strongly condemns the decision of the Narimanov district court to detain Gubad Ibadoghlu for a period of 3 months and 26 days, starting from July 24, 2023.

According to the National Platform, Gubad Ibadoghlu's arrest appears to be linked to his political activities, including his criticism of the government's economic policies and his involvement in the 'Democracy and Prosperity' Party, which he currently chairs, as well as his past initiatives.

The platform points out that the political environment in Azerbaijan has worsened since the enforcement of the new law on political parties on January 11, 2023. This has resulted in significant restrictions and pressure on political parties, leading to the cessation of activities for many of them.

In light of these developments, the National Platform calls on the Azerbaijani government to cease unjust persecution of political activists and to immediately release Gubad Ibadoghlu.

Lastly, the platform urges the European Political Community to support the development of an inclusive political environment for civic society and political parties in Azerbaijan. This support is seen as crucial in upholding principles of democracy, freedom of expression, and human rights in the country.