Human rights activists call on Azerbaijani authorities to release Rufat Safarov
The Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders (OPHRD) has demanded that the Azerbaijani authorities release Rufat Safarov. The human rights activist has been in custody since December 3.
 
"The charges against Rufat Safarov are directly related to his legitimate human rights activities. We also demand an end to the persecution of other activists in the country," the appeal says.
 
Safarov was charged under three articles: fraud committed with causing major damage, hooliganism, and intentional infliction of minor bodily harm. He denied the charges and said that he was being persecuted because of his human rights activities and the US State Department award.
 
Earlier, the opposition Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan said that it would fight against plans to establish a "totalitarian regime" in the country. The PFA noted that the Azerbaijani authorities have launched a new wave of repression. From December 3 to 10 alone, nine people were arrested in the country for political reasons. Among them is Rufat Safarov.
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