Court refuses Azerbaijani oppositionist Mamed Ibragim of early release

Despite the changes in the legislation, the court did not soften the verdict to Mamed Ibragim, an adviser to the chair of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA). The defence intends to challenge the decision pronounced by the court on February 16.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that in March 2016, Mamed Ibragim was sentenced to three years of imprisonment after a complaint filed by Mikail Guliev, who claimed the oppositionist had beaten him. Advocates claimed falsification of the case materials.

On February 16, the appeal of Mamed Ibragim was considered at the visiting session of the Garadag District Court, reported Turan Ibragim, a son of the activist. According to him, his father did not have an advocate and had to defend himself.

Advocate Fariz Namazly reported he could not participate in the trial because of engagement in other cases. "I am already aware of the court's decision. We will certainly challenge it," Fariz Namazly told the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.

"Mamed Ibragim was sentenced to 0.6 of the maximum punishment under Article 221.2.2. Given the reduction of the maximum sanction, the sentence of Mamed Ibragim was to be reduced down to 2.4 years of imprisonment. He has already served the term and has the right to expect his release. Unfortunately, the first instance court has ignored our arguments. And we will again raise the issue in our appeal," Fariz Namazly noted.

Full text of the article is available on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’.