The statement of President Ilham Aliyev (right) about the prohibition on punishing policemen who committed violence against citizens during the parliamentary elections in 2005 has caused negative reactions in society. The majority of public and political figures of Azerbaijan is concerned on the consequences of such statement. (05-JUL-07)
Written by Shahla Ismailova/ HRH Baku on the basis of materials from IRFS and Turan Information Agency; photos by Shahla Ismailova and from Turan, IRFS, Yeni Musavat newspaper
The speech of Ilham Aliyev on 2 July 2007 at the Police Academy Graduation Ceremony contained several alarming statements, which are considered contradictory to the respect of human rights and freedoms. Speaking about parliamentary elections 2005, the president noted “A number of countries and international organizations demanded us to punish the policemen, condemned in violence. However, I stated that no one would be punished, as they were fulfilling their duties. I support the police today as well”. Ilham Aliyev also said that on the eve of the 2005 elections some “criminal elements, through financial support from corrupt officials and certain foreign forces, attempted to seize power in Azerbaijan, but these attempts were prevented”.
Political parties
The leader of the Democratic Party Serdar Jajaloglu, commenting on Ilham Aliyev’s statement said “in fact, the president lifted responsibility from police for violence, and this means that he violates the principle of equality of all citizens before the law. Just such a policy of the authorities caused the death of 69 people in jails”. 
The leader of Musavat Party Isa Gambar (right) characterized I. Aliyev’s statement as the “loss of a sense of reality.” Punishment is not a prerogative of the president; it is the prerogative of independent court. Ilham Aliyev openly admits that he backs up the police tyranny. These confessions testify that Azerbaijan’s authorities openly refuse from the fulfillment of obligations to the Council of Europe and OSCE.
The leader of PPFA Ali Kerimli stated that he was not surprised with such statements by Aliyev. It confirms that there is a police state in Azerbaijan.
Human rights defender
Human rights activist Leyla Yunus (right) said Ilham Aliyev’s words are inadmissible, and considers it very important that there be reactions to these statements on the part of the international organizations, the Council of Europe and the EU.
Media
The Institute for Reporter Freedom and Safety condemns the statement made by President Ilham Aliyev that he personally ensures that no police that use violence against citizens will be punished. IRFS believes that by guaranteeing impunity to police the president has violated the Constitution. IRFS also believes that Aliyev’s statement will act to stimulate the use of limitless violence by police against peaceful citizens, including journalists reporting on various incidents.
Articles
Concern About President’s Speech
The statement of President Ilham Aliyev (right) about the prohibition on punishing policemen who committed violence against citizens during the parliamentary elections in 2005 has caused negative reactions in society. The majority of public and political figures of Republic of Azerbaijan is concerned on the consequences of such statement. (05-JUL-07)
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