Oppositional "Azadlyg" resumed publication in Azerbaijan

In Azerbaijan, after a five-day break, the oppositional newspaper "Azadlyg" (Freedom) has resumed publication. This happened after the newspaper had partially repaid its debt to the publishing house "Azerbaijan", a state-owned enterprise. However, the editors believe that the newspaper can be suspended again, if the press distributor "Gasid" fails to repay its debt to the newspaper.

"However, we also look forward to the support of our readers. Last year, in a similar situation, we were able to resume publication due to financial aid of our readers. And at present, we look forward to their support," said Rakhim Gadjiev, First Deputy Editor-in-Chief of "Azadlyg".

The appeal of the newspaper "Azadlyg" to its readers contains the same call. "Please help us as far as you can, and we will bring your voice to the world community. The Aliev's government wants to close the last window of freedom. Remaining indifferent to the closure of the newspaper means closing eyes to the destruction of civil society in Azerbaijan," says the appeal.

Rakhim Gadjiev believes that "Azadlyg" "is being strangled with economic methods." He reminded that earlier the paper was heavily fined under defamation claims.

Full text of the article is available on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’.