In 2008, Ganimat Zahid was convicted of trumped-up charges of hooliganism and intentional infliction of minor bodily harm.
(IRFS/IFEX) – On 18 March 2010, “Azadlig” newspaper’s editor-in-chief Ganimat Zahid was released from the Penitentiary Service’s treatment facility. The editor-in-chief told the Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety (IRFS) that he will begin working after he receives treatment. If necessary, he will begin working right away. However, Zahid will come to a decision after he talks to “Azadlig” newspaper staff.
Zahid was convicted under articles 127.2.3 (hooliganism with intentional infliction of minor bodily harm) and 221 (hooliganism) of the Criminal Code and sentenced to four years in prison.
On 17 March, Zahid was pardoned under a pardon decree signed by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.
“Azadlig” newspaper has been published since 1989 and operates as daily newspaper.
