Opposition leader released in Azerbaijan

Today, the court has released from custody Ali Kerimli, the leader of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), and obliged him to pay 1500 US dollars of fine for organizing an unsanctioned march in Baku.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on November 17, the police stopped a march organized by PFPA activists in Baku. About fifty people were detained. The march was organized on the occasion of the national holiday – the National Revival Day – marked in the country on November 17.

Today, the Sabail District Court of Baku has found Ali Kerimli guilty of organizing and participating in an unsanctioned march and fined him in the amount of 2500 manats (1500 US dollars). After the decision had been pronounced, the leader of the PFPA was released, reports the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent who stayed near the court building.

Ali Kerimli himself told reporters that the authorities could not prevent a march along Alley of Martyrs. "No one else will be able to close the Alley of Martyrs to us," he emphasized. Ali Kerimli has also noted that, together with his supporters, he "will continue the struggle" for democracy.

This article was originally published on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’ on November 19, 2018 at 12:49 pm MSK. To access the full text of the article, click here.