Azerbaijani opposition declared its decision to boycott presidential elections of 2008. Menawhile, Ali Hasanov (right), head of presidential administration’s public-political department insists that statements about boycott of elections do not affect political life in the republic. (12-JUL-2008)
      
Written by Shahla Ismayilova/HRH Azerbaijan on the basis of materials from Turan Info Agency and IRFS; photo by Turan
    
Azerbaijani opposition has recently declared its official attitude to presidential elections of 2008 by its inclination to boycott the elections. However this statement did not get expected reaction of Azerbaijani authorities.

On the whole Council of Europe Venice Commission and OSCE agreed to the amendments inserted into Electoral Code of Azerbaijan said Ali Hasanov, head of presidential administration’s public-political department.

“Failure to accept all proposals of Venice Commission is not connected with Azerbaijani authorities’ unwillingness. This has happened, because parties failed to find an agreement on principles of formation of election commissions,” said Hasanov. Thus, composition of election commissions will remain unchanged. “I suppose that the present election commissions will conduct elections, until the better format is found,” added Hasanov.

He also said, that statements of some opposition parties about elections boycott “are not politically serious.” He said majority of political parties have confirmed their participation at elections. He is sure that at least 7-8 candidates will run for the presidency. “Appeals to boycott are not serious and they do not affect political life,” said Hasanov.