Tazakhan Miralimli Freed

Tazakhan Miralimli

Tazakhan Miralimli, who heads the Central Audit Commission of the Azerbaijan Popular Front Party (AXCP), is now a free man.

Natiq Adilov, who manages the party's press relations, told about Miralimli's release.

Miralimli was questioned as a witness in the legal case of AXCP leader Ali Karimli.

State security officers detained Miralimli on December 5 as he was heading to Karimli's court hearing. They searched his residence and took his phone and computer.

Karimli himself was taken into custody on November 29.

On December 1, Karimli was charged with violating Article 278.1 of the Criminal Code. This article concerns actions aimed at seizing power by force or changing the state's constitutional structure by force. The Sabail District Court ordered him to be held in custody for 2 months and 15 days.

Media outlets that generally support the government say Karimli's detention is related to the Ramiz Mehdiyev case.

Background Details

The situation started when officials took Ali Karimli into custody on November 29. This action raised concerns among his supporters and party members. The detention occurred amidst a wider environment of political tension.

A few days later, State Security Employees stopped Tazakhan Miralimli on December 5. Miralimli was on his way to Karimli's court appearance. The officials searched Miralimli’s home. They then took his personal electronic devices. These actions suggest the case has sensitive information.

The charges against Ali Karimli, under Article 278.1 of the Criminal Code, carry stiff penalties, reflecting the government's tough stance on any actions it sees as threatening its authority. The Sabail District Court's decision to detain Karimli for over two months indicates the seriousness of the charges.

The mention of the Ramiz Mehdiyev case by pro-government media adds another layer of complexity. It suggests that the authorities suspect a wider network of individuals. They may believe that these individuals are involved in activities against the state. Ramiz Mehdiyev is a controversial figure in Azerbaijan politics. His name being linked to this case could indicate a larger political struggle.

Political Implications

The events have aroused concern both within Azerbaijan and among international organizations. Groups that watch human rights and political freedoms are paying close attention to how the case proceeds. They are worried about the possibility of political motivations. There are concerns that the government may be using the legal system to silence.

It could be an effort to reduce tension. His release does not change the underlying worries about the rule of law. It also does not change worries about the treatment of political activists in Azerbaijan.