Jailed Azerbaijani scholar Iqbal Abilov publishes poetry book

Iqbal Abilov

Relatives of jailed Azerbaijani scholar Iqbal Abilov say a Polish publisher has released a collection of his Russian-language poetry as he serves an 18-year prison sentence.

The book, published by JKB Print in Warsaw, includes a dedication to Elbayi Karimli, a member of the opposition Azerbaijan Popular Front Party (APFP) who reportedly died by suicide in prison custody in December last year.

Abilov, an ethnic researcher and editor-in-chief of the journal of the Talysh National Academy, was sentenced in May last year on charges of high treason, inciting ethnic hatred, and making anti-state calls.

He has consistently denied the allegations, maintaining that his activities were purely academic.

Human rights defenders say Abilov’s conviction is part of a systemic crackdown on dissent in the country. Activists estimate that there are now more than 300 political prisoners in Azerbaijan.

The government in Baku has repeatedly denied these claims, maintaining that there are no political prisoners in the country and that no one is prosecuted for their opinions.

However, details of another controversial prosecution emerged on 1 June at the Baku Grave Crimes Court, where the trial of dissident teacher Dayanat Chalabi resumed.

Chalabi, who was arrested in December last year, is charged with the intentional infliction of serious bodily harm. He told the court that the allegations of a stabbing were entirely fabricated to punish him for his online criticisms of the authorities.

This is a pre-planned, organised case against me," Chalabi told the panel of judges. "Sending such a case to court is not just framing me, it is a sign of disrespect to you, the judges."

The day before his arrest on 22 December, Chalabi had posted a message on Facebook criticising President Ilham Aliyev's administration, accusing the government of weakening the country and "privatising" the state.

His trial is scheduled to resume on 25 June.