12 Nov 2019 | 11:39 AM UTC
Azerbaijan: Opposition party plans protest in Baku November 12 /update 1
Musavat opposition party plans unauthorized rally in Baku November 12; heightened security measures expected
Event
The Musavat opposition party called for a rally in Baku on Tuesday, November 12, during Azerbaijan's Constitutional Day. Protesters are expected to gather at 15:00 (local time) in front of the City Hall to demand better civil rights and freedom of assembly.
City authorities have not approved the location of the gathering. Heightened security measures and localized transportation disruptions are expected around all possible demonstration sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
An estimated 60 protesters have reportedly been arrested and several Musavat party members interrogated by authorities after an opposition rally was violently dispersed in Baku on October 19.
On November 2, an opposition rally was called off following a request by authorities to hold the rally in Baku's outskirts instead of the originally proposed central locations.
Advice
Individuals in Baku are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
