Trial Date Set for NGO Leader Hafiz Hasanov in High-Profile Case

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Hafiz Hasanov

Baku, October 10, 2025 — The preliminary investigation into the criminal case against Hafiz Hasanov, the head of the "Law and Development" Public Union, has concluded. Mr. Hasanov is one of the accused in the widespread "NGO case".

The criminal case has been forwarded to the Baku Court of Grave Crimes for review. The case is assigned to Judge Eldar Ismayilov. The court's preparation session is scheduled for October 22.

Hafiz Hasanov was detained on March 14, 2025, and is currently held under house arrest, a precautionary measure chosen by the Binaqadi District Court.

Mr. Hasanov faces charges under several articles of the Criminal Code:

• Article 193-1.3.2: Legalization of a substantial amount of property obtained through crime.

• Article 308.2: Abuse of official powers resulting in serious consequences.

• Article 313: Official forgery.

These charges collectively carry a potential prison sentence of up to 12 years.

Broader NGO Case Context

Arrests related to the "NGO case" started in March 2025. Other individuals initially detained included Bashir Süleymanlı, head of the Institute of Citizen Rights, and Mammad Alpay, Executive Director of the Election Monitoring Alliance. A preparatory hearing was also held for Bashir Süleymanli on October 9, 2025, where the court decided to proceed with a formal trial, scheduled for October 23.

The general charges against the defendants involve the legalization of property obtained through criminal means, abuse of official powers, and forgery. The investigation surrounding the "NGO case" has reportedly involved over 100 individuals, including staff members from international donor organizations and leaders of certain government-aligned NGOs.