Fatullaev: readers in Azerbaijan want restoration of independent newspapers and earlier political course

The niche of independent journalism in Azerbaijan is almost completely destroyed; the country has big problems with the freedom of speech; however, readers want restoration of independent newspapers and continuation of the previous political course. This was stated by Einullah Fatullaev, a former political prisoner and editor-in-chief of the newspapers "Real Azerbaijan" and "Gyundelik Azerbaijan", who had spent his last 4 years in prison and was released on May 26. Therefore, he intends to continue publishing his newspapers.

"My arrest was a struggle for life and liberty, in which I was supported by international community and democratic forces," underlines the journalist.
He added in his video interview to the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent that the reason for his arrest was in the growing popularity of his newspapers "Real Azerbaijan" and "Gyundelik Azerbaijan", where he criticized corruption among senior bureaucrats and violations of democratic norms.

"Every day the website of our newspapers was visited by over 15,000 users. Given that in 2006 the Internet in Azerbaijan has not as widespread as today, it was a huge number," said Fatullaev.

In his opinion, his media had a great influence on the public opinion in the country.

The journalist noted with gratitude that all his time in prison he felt support of the local and global democratic community.