Azerbaijani oppositionist starving for three months again declared his innocence

A trial has begun in Baku on the case of the chairman of the regional organization of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan, Zamin Salayev, who has been on a hunger strike for 94 days demanding his release.

During the meeting, Salaev repeated that he did not attack the victim with a knife and the charge was completely fabricated in order to punish him for his opposition activities. The court also heard the victim and two witnesses. According to the PFPA, these individuals have previous convictions for drug-related offenses and are collaborating with the police.

The PFPA noted that on the 94th day of the hunger strike, Salaev is in serious condition and has lost 47 kg. He had previously fallen into a coma, and urgent medical intervention was carried out.

The defendant has repeatedly stated that the accusation is false and that he is being punished for criticizing the authorities on social networks.
Human rights activists recognized Salaev as a political prisoner. The US Embassy called on the Azerbaijani authorities to release the man, claiming his unfair detention.

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