In Azerbaijan, the opposition accused the totalitarian regime of arresting dissidents
The Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan will resolutely fight against plans to establish a "totalitarian regime" in the country. This is stated in the party's statement.
 
The PFA notes that the Azerbaijani authorities have launched a new wave of repression. From December 3 to 10 alone, nine people were arrested in the country for political reasons. Among them are human rights activist Rufat Safarov, employees of Meydan TV Aynur Elgunesh, Aytaj Tapdig, Khayala Agayeva, Aysel Umudova, Natig Javadli and Ramin Deko, another journalist Ulvi Tahirli and independent politician Azer Gasimli. On December 10, the court sentenced the chairman of the Dashkesan branch of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan Sahib Mammadzade to 6 years and 6 months in prison.
 
"These and other arrests are part of the policy of complete destruction of democratic institutions and potential, carried out by the ruling regime in the country for many years. The goal is to attack freedom of speech and opinion, human rights protection and opposition political initiatives. The authorities want to eliminate the last remnants of independent media, human rights and political activities in the country," the NFA statement said.
 
Today, human rights activist Rufat Safarov highly praised the US State Department award bestowed on him for his contribution to the protection of human rights.
 
"I express my gratitude to the US Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Mr. Libby, who nominated me for this award, and to the US Secretary of State, Mr. Blinken, who supported its presentation. Unfortunately, official Baku arrested me to prevent me from personally receiving the award and to punish me for my human rights activities," Safarov said.
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