Ali Karimli, leader of the Azerbaijan Popular Front Party (APFP), released a statement through his family regarding the country's socioeconomic situation and the effectiveness of public administration. He noted that despite a significant increase in oil export revenues, these funds are not being translated into improvements in the lives of citizens.
Karimli emphasized that high oil prices do not solve social problems, which are fueling persistent inflation.
The opposition politician also stated that Azerbaijan's natural resources are being used not for the benefit of society as a whole, but for the enrichment of a small group. He cited the flooding problem in Baku as an example, attributing it to infrastructure shortcomings.
Ali Karimli, who has been in custody since late 2025 in a case related to former head of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev (in connection with an attempted coup), rejects the charges brought by investigators as fabricated and politically motivated. His party, the Popular Front Party, denies any "Russian connection" or involvement in the coup, declaring its commitment to European integration and peaceful methods.
International human rights activists and the European Parliament have supported Karimli and other arrested Azerbaijani activists and journalists. The leader of the Popular Front Party has repeatedly criticized President Ilham Aliyev for political repression and corruption.
