Azerbaijan: Protests possible during opposition leaders’ court case in Baku September 28

Event

Security measures are expected to be stepped up in Baku on Monday, September 28, due to the potential for protests associated with the court case of detained opposition leader Tofiq Yagublu. Protests by opposition supporters are possible in the vicinity of the Court of Appeal on Ayna Sultanova and around other government buildings.

A heightened security presence is anticipated around the courthouse and other potential protests sites on Monday and any demonstrations which do occur are likely to be forcibly dispersed by security forces.

Context

Yagublu was arrested in March on charges of hooliganism and was released under house arrest on September 22, pending the outcome of his appeal, after he agreed to end a 17-day hunger strike.

Advice

Those in Baku are advised to monitor developments, avoid demonstrations and political gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authori