OSCE Representative on Freedom of Media strictly condemns Azerbaijani crackdown against journalists
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YEREVAN, DECEMBER 18, ARMENPRESS. The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir today expressed concerns regarding the sentencing ofAziz Orudjev, head of the internet TV channelKanal 13, in Azerbaijan, ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the OSCE.
On 15 December,the Baku Court on Grave CrimessentencedOrudjev to six years in prison on charges of illegal entrepreneurship and abuse of power.
“I call on the authorities to review Aziz Orudjev’s verdict and to endrestrictive measures detrimental to his freedom and safety,”Désir said.“I am hopeful that this decision will be overturned during the appeals process.”
In his letter to the authorities of 30 November, the Representativenoted repeated reports that the prosecution has not submitted any evidence of Orudjev’s guilt to the court, as well asallegations that the journalist was subject to persecution because of his work onKanal 13, known for its independent reporting.
Désir also raised concern regarding the ongoing trial of journalistAfghan Mukhtarli, who was reportedly abducted in Tbilisi, Georgia at the end of May 2017.
“Notwithstanding the seriousness of reports that Mukhtarli was subject to attack and abduction, thespuriouscharges brought against him in Azerbaijan and the lack of evidence for keeping him in lengthy custody is troubling,”Désir said. “I urge the authorities to drop all charges against the journalist andrespecthis right to freedom of expression.”
The Representativeadditionally noted reports that the bankaccounts ofwell-known investigative journalist KhadijaIsmayilova have been recently suspended. He reminded the authorities that this restrictive action, together with her unjust imprisonment and continued travel ban, is yet another step whichseriously hinders the professional activity of the journalist.
Furthermore,Désirexpressed his disappointment with theBaku Appeals Court’s decision to uphold the two-year prison sentence handed down to Mehman Huseynov, blogger and chair of the media NGO Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety, on 15 December. The Representative has previously called for Huseynov’s release.