Religious Activist in Prison Protests With Hunger Strike and Sewn Mouth

Elman Sheydayev

A religious activist, Elman Sheydayev, a recognized political prisoner, has reportedly begun a hunger strike in Penitentiary Institution No. 6. He sewed his mouth shut as a form of protest. Human rights defender Arzu Abdulla informed Meydan TV about this situation on November 24.

Abdulla said Sheydayev's protest is against the arrest of six religious women: Nigar Baghirova, Ayten Ibrahimova, Shahla Farajova, Khoshgadam Guliyeva, Sharqiyya Sadigova, and Arzu Huseynova.

These women were first arrested on August 17 after giving out charity in the Khazar district. They are accused of organizing illegal gatherings under the pretense of religious ceremonies. On November 8, the Khazar District Court decided to extend their pre-trial detention. Following this, Sharqiyya Huseynova, Shahla Farajova, Nigar Baghirova, and Ayten Ibrahimova started their own hunger strike.

Sheydayev was arrested in February 2022 on drug charges. Judge Rahib Salmanov sentenced him to 7 years in prison at the Baku Court of Grave Crimes.

According to journalist Arzu Abdulla's Facebook post on November 24, Sheydayev is demanding the release of the six women. His health is said to be in serious condition.

Sheydayev claims the charges against him are false. He says his arrest is because of his activism and his refusal to give evidence against theologian Sardar Hajihasanli.

The six women were arrested on August 15 in the Bina settlement. They were distributing charity in the name of Imam Hussein and chanting slogans about Palestine. The charges against them include hooliganism and disturbing public order.