IHF condemns and denounces the arrest and prosecution of Mirza Sakit

As APA reports, the IHF and the HRCA, joining a growing international voice, demand a transparent, independent, and thorough investigation of the charges leveled against Zakhidov, who in protest of the charges has been on a hunger strike since 25 July, and recall that Azerbaijan, in accordance with international human rights agreements and commitments, has an obligation to protect and uphold the freedom of expression and the right of journalists to carry out their professional duty freely.

"As a participating state of the OSCE, Azerbaijan has …reaffirm[ed] the right to freedom of expression, including the right to communication and the right of the media to collect, report and disseminate information, news and opinions…[and has] further recognize[ed] that independent media are essential to a free and open society and accountable systems of government and are of particular importance in safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms."

Concerning the nvestigation, no search of Zakhidov's flat or office was ever conducted, no associated sellers or buyers were ever found, and blatantly inadequate and coerced drug test results were submitted as evidence against Zakhidov, demonstrating a purported drug addiction. Indeed, the drug "test" upon which the prosecution makes its case consisted of only a half-hour-long observation of Zakhidov by doctors.

It is with grave concern that the IHF and HRCA call upon:
Azerbaijani authorities to openly, independently, and thoroughly investigate the charges and evidence brought against journalist Sakit Zakhidov.

The Azerbaijani Prosecutor's office and courts to take seriously the possibility that drug control law is being abused in order to stifle freedom of expression and eliminate political opposition. Due process and the proper rule of law must be protected.

The Azerbaijani government to fulfill and carry out its obligations to defend and promote the freedom of expression, as stated in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 19) and the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (Article 10), treaties to which Azerbaijan is party.

We should note that Zakhidov was arrested on 23 June 2006 and charged with the possession and sale of a narcotic by officers of the anti-narcotics department of the Azerbaijani Interior Ministry. According to a statement issued by the Ministry, 10 grams of heroin were found on Zakhidov’s person and confiscated following the arrest. Zakhidov claims, however, that the drugs were planted on him.