Izzetli complained about the lack of effective medical care in the pretrial detention center

Ruslan Izzetli, a member of the Institute for Democratic Initiatives, arrested in Baku, complained of a lack of effective medical care amid an exacerbation of gallstone disease.

As reported by the "Caucasian Knot," Ruslan Izzetli, an employee of the Institute for Democratic Initiatives, Akif Gurbanov, the director of the institute, and other activists and journalists are in custody in connection with the Toplum TV case. Initially accused of currency smuggling, they were charged with six new criminal offenses in January. They face up to 12 years in prison.

Ruslan Izzetli's statement was published on November 28 on his Facebook account*. The activist's statement notes that a month ago he requested an ultrasound examination at Baku Pretrial Detention Center No. 1 due to an exacerbation of his gallstone disease, but he still hasn't received an appointment with a doctor.

At night, I have to take painkiller injections.

"I have to take painkiller injections because of the pain at night. I'm most concerned about any changes in my gallbladder. This organ has lost its functionality," wrote Izzetli, whose publication was translated into Russian by a "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.

The activist believes he needs gallbladder surgery, but this is impossible in pretrial detention conditions. However, Izzetli tries to take care of his health.

"In particular, I pay close attention to my diet. However, in recent days, my pain has intensified. This necessitates an ultrasound examination. But apparently, the Penitentiary Service doesn't have a doctor specializing in this field. Previously, there was a doctor named Orkhan who performed the examination. However, after he resigned, we were abandoned to our fate," Ruslan Izzetli noted.

According to him, the Justice Ministry's medical service is in "unfit condition." "There are practically no professional or specialized doctors. The reason is clear: no one wants to work for low wages. As a result, thousands of prisoners are deprived of effective medical care," Izzetli wrote.

Gunel Manafly expressed concern for her husband's well-being. "Ruslan is trying to maintain his health with a strict diet. But recently, his illness has flared up again. However, he is being denied an ultrasound to check for changes in his gallbladder and whether any stones have shifted. Perhaps the need for surgery has already become inevitable," she told a "Caucasian Knot" correspondent today.

Representatives of the penitentiary service were unavailable for comment.