The Azerbaijan Democratic Prosperity (ADR) Party recently held a protest demanding the release of party chairman Professor Gubad Ibadoglu. ADR members, supporters, and sympathizers took to the streets chanting slogans and calling for the return of Party documents. The protest was met with police opposition, but the ADR Party considered it a success.
Professor Gubad Ibadoglu is a renowned economist and a prominent opposition figure in Azerbaijan. He is the chairman of the Azerbaijan Democratic Prosperity (ADR) Party, which advocates for democratic reforms, human rights, and political pluralism in the country. In July 2023, Professor Gubad was arrested on charges of embezzlement, which he denies. The ADR Party claims that his arrest is politically motivated, aimed at silencing the opposition and undermining their efforts to promote democracy in Azerbaijan.
The EAP CSF has called for @gubad_ibadoghlu’s release from the day of his politically motivated
— Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum (@eapcsf) September 18, 2023
arrest.
Last week's @Europarl_EN resolution is one more step for his liberation. Political prisoners are incompatible
with a #free and #democratic Europe. #FreeGubad pic.twitter.com/24vsVmSwpg
The ADR Party organized a protest, demanding the release of Professor Gubad and the return of documents related to Party. ADR has been unable to complete its official registration process due to recent changes in what is considered party status. The protesters chanted slogans such as “Freedom for Gubad!” and “We demand justice!” The protest was peaceful, but the police intervened, arrested several protesters, and dispersed the crowd. The ADR Party condemned the police’s actions and vowed to continue their struggle for democracy and human rights in Azerbaijan.
The ADR Party’s protest has drawn international attention and support. Politicians, parliamentarians, public figures, human rights organizations, journalists, and freedom advocates worldwide have expressed solidarity with Professor Gubad and the ADR Party. They have called on the Azerbaijani authorities to release Professor Gubad and respect the rule of law and democratic principles. Some have even urged their governments to impose diplomatic and economic sanctions on Azerbaijan until the human rights situation improves.
Today, 4 activists are imprisoned in Aze.
— Zhala Bayramova #freedomforibadoghlu #freegubad (@BayramovaZhala) September 20, 2023
Afiaddin Mammadov is waiting for long-term imprisonment because of activism on labor rights.
Opposed to the war, Amrah Tahmazov, Emin Ibrahimov, Nemat Abbasov were imprisoned for 30 days. Aze is tripling number of political prisoners! pic.twitter.com/q425vz7Iby
The Azerbaijani authorities have not responded to the ADR Party’s demands for Professor Gubad’s release and the restoration of their activities. However, the ADR Party has not given up on their struggle. They have vowed to mobilize more protests, meetings, and demonstrations until their demands are met. They have also called on their supporters to sign petitions, write letters, and raise awareness of their cause on social media and other platforms.
The ADR Party’s protest for the release of their chairman, Professor Gubad Ibadoglu, is a powerful statement against injustice, oppression, and violation of human rights. It is a reminder that democracy, freedom, and justice are universal values that deserve respect and protection. The ADR Party’s struggle is not only about one person’s fate; it is about the future of Azerbaijan and the world. We must support the ADR Party and their cause, as it is a litmus test for our commitment to human dignity and democracy. Together, we can make a difference and bring about positive change for all.