Azerbaijan: Opposition party plans protest in Baku April 7

Event

The Musavat opposition party is planning to hold a series of unauthorized rallies in Baku on Sunday, April 7. Musavat leaders announced that the party planned on having supporters gather near Tofig Bahramov Stadium, Mehsul Stadium, and the Darnagul metro station starting at 15:00 (local time). However, as of Thursday, April 4, it is unclear if Musavat will proceed with the protests. Heightened security measures and localized transportation are expected around all possible demonstration sites.

Context

Opposition leaders are calling for improvements to civil rights, including freedom of assembly and speech. On Wednesday, April 3, the Baku City Executive Power (BSC) rejected the party’s appeal to hold the protests.

Advice

Individuals in Baku are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public or on social media platforms.