Opposition trade union activist-political prisoner convicted in Azerbaijan

The Baku Serious Crimes Court sentenced Elvin Mustafayev, a member of the alternative Confederation of Trade Unions “Work Table”, to three years in prison. He was accused of drug trafficking. He denied the accusations and linked them to his trade union and social activities.

Elvin Mustafayev became the third trade union activist arrested in Azerbaijan between August and September 2023, along with Afiyaddin Mammadov and Aykhan Israfilov. Human rights activists recognized all three as political prisoners.

The day before, Aykhan Israfilov complained about the conditions of his detention in the pre-trial detention center. His cell holds 16 people, whereas it was designed for 10. Members of the activist’s family noted that he has health problems and is disabled of the 3rd group. The activist was also accused of storing and distributing narcotic substances.

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