21:12, 30 July 2004

Ibragimoglu withdraws his candidacy for post of UN Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion

Ilgar Ibragimoglu, a candidate for the post of the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion has withdrawn his candidacy in favor of the candidate for Pakistan, Khanum Jahangir. Mr Ibragimoglu made this decision because of the situation that has arisen in Azerbaijan. The statement issued in this connection reads that the difficult situation in the country in the field of freedom of conscience, especially the state of the Juma religious community makes his departure from the country impossible. "No matter how honorable is to represent my country in such an influential organization as the United Nations, the crucial situation with the development of civil society in the county makes me withdraw my candidacy in favor of the candidate for Pakistan," Ilgar Ibragimoglu said.

Ilgar Ibragimoglu is a member of the Majlis of the Islami Ittihad society, the activity of which has been outlawed in Azerbaijan recently.

Author: Zaur Rasulzade, CK correspondent

Source: Caucasian Knot