(RSF/IFEX) – RSF has expressed serious concern over the remanding in custody of an opposition journalist for three months. Sadig Ismailov, of the opposition daily “Baki Khaber”, is accused of taking part in clashes in Baku pitting opposition activists against security forces after the 15 October 2003 presidential elections. “Baki Khaber” editor-in-chief Aydin Gouliev said […]
(RSF/IFEX) – RSF has expressed serious concern over the remanding in custody of an opposition journalist for three months. Sadig Ismailov, of the opposition daily “Baki Khaber”, is accused of taking part in clashes in Baku pitting opposition activists against security forces after the 15 October 2003 presidential elections. “Baki Khaber” editor-in-chief Aydin Gouliev said Ismailov had been sent to cover the demonstrations at Azadliq Square on 16 October.
RSF sees no justification for remanding Ismailov in custody, especially for such a long period. The organisation has asked for an explanation from Interior Minister Ramil Usubov and General Prosecutor Zakir Garalov.
Ismailov was arrested in Baku on 30 December under Criminal Code Articles 220.1 (“disturbing the peace”) and 315 (“refusal to comply”). On 31 December, the Nasimi Regional Court decided to remand the journalist in custody for three months, during the period of the investigation. Ismailov is being held at Bailov prison in Baku. He faces three to seven years in jail.
Another journalist, Rauf Arifoglu, editor-in-chief of the opposition daily “Yeni Musavat”, has been detained since 27 October. He is accused of organising demonstrations on 15 and 16 October (see IFEX alerts of 10 and 2 December, 24 November, 30, 27, 24 and 22 October 2003). RSF has previously called for his release.
