Activists in Azerbaijan criticize tougher punishment for blogger Gurbanov

A court in Baku has ruled to toughen the punishment for the blogger, Aslan Gurbanov, by transferring him from a colony to a prison for two years. Gurbanov, convicted of publications in support of Talysh nationals, should be released, Rufat Safarov, a human rights defender, and Khilal Mamedov, a Talysh activist, have stated.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that in January 2021, Gurbanov was put on the list of political prisoners compiled by the Union "For Freedom of Azerbaijani Political Prisoners". Gurbanov was charged under the articles "Open appeals against the state" and "Incitement to national, religious and social hatred" for his posts on the Facebook.

According to Fariz Namazly, his advocate, Aslan's repeated violations of colony discipline became the reason for the toughening of the punishment. "He is accused of scandals with guards and other convicts," Mr Namazly has explained, adding that the custody conditions in the Gobustan Prison are tougher than in the Baku colony. The prison contains life prisoners and especially dangerous criminals; it is known for its strict custody rules.

In the opinion of the advocate, moral pressure is exerted on Gurbanov, and he is beaten in custody.

Akhad Gurbanov, the convict's father, has explained that his son had posted appeals in defence of Talysh nationals.

The human rights organization "Defence Line" opposes the verdict passed on Gurbanov, Rufat Safarov, its chairman, has stated. According to his version, Gurbanov had been convicted for the free expression of his opinion and should be released.