23:52, 11 January 2005

Yeni Musavat published again

The publication of one of the main newspapers of the Azerbaijan opposition, Yeni Musavat, was resumed on January 10. It happened due to "the latest financial means", announced editors of the newspaper. The publication of the newspaper can be suspended again at any moment because of the same financial problems, they added. Yeni Musavat acting editor-in-chief Azer Aykhan told the Caucasian Knot correspondent that three deputy editors-in-chief had left the newspaper since his appointment. Another five employees had left the newspaper earlier.

Yeni Musavat editor-in-chief Rauf Arifoglu is serving his term of 5.5 years charged with organizing mass riots after the 2003 presidential election in Azerbaijan.

In 2004, Azerbaijan authorities arrested the newspaper's accounts as a result of huge fines ($160,000) imposed by courts because state officials of high rank sued the newspaper accusing it of slandering and offending their honor and dignity. International organizations have denounced the purposeful policy of closing the Yeni Musavat.

Author: Zaur Rasulzade, CK correspondent