Gusein: "Public Chamber" will act as "shadow parliament" of Azerbaijan

Establishment in Azerbaijan of the Civil Movement for Democracy named "Public Chamber" is aimed at increasing the political participation and involvement of the population in governing the country. This was stated by Panakh Gusein, a member of the Coordinating Board of the Movement.

According to Mr Gusein, a former MP, the new formation will act as a "shadow parliament".

"Of course, we don't claim any, but we are ready to draft and submit to the public and National Assembly alternative bills addressing the topical problems of the country," he said.

The Civil Movement for Democracy "Public Chamber" (GMDPC) was founded on December 28, 2010, during the third forum of former candidates for deputies, who disagreed with the results of the November 7 parliamentary elections.
Among the priority issues to be resolved in Azerbaijan, Panakh Gusein called the fight against corruption; ensuring transparency in the use of state finances and, in particular, oil revenues; observance of real balance among branches of power; and enforcement of fair justice.

According to Isa Gambar, leader of the "Musavat" Party and another member of the GMDPC, the mass movement of citizens in defence their rights will inevitably force the authorities to reckon with the public opinion.

Bakhar Muradova, Vice-Speaker of the Parliament and a member of the ruling Party "Eni Azerbaijan" believes that "creation by some opposition parties of a structure called 'Public Chamber' has and will have no effect on the political life in the country."