Opposition figure Gulu Mammadli stated that the arrest of Ali Karimli, leader of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), was expected, but the reasons go beyond simple criticism of the authorities. According to Mammadli, Karimli's publications in major Western media have increased his political significance and visibility abroad, which has caused concern among the Azerbaijani authorities.
Today supporters of Mikheil Saakashvili went to the Georgian Government Chancellery building for a protest rally. They again demanded the release of the ex-president of the country and his release for treatment abroad.
The Chairman of the leading opposition party «NDE» Levan Habeishvili said at the rally that demonstrations will be held in all regions, districts and villages of Georgia in order to achieve Georgia’s European future and the well-being of citizens. These aspirations include the liberation of Mikhail Saakashvili.
Earlier deputies of the European Parliament supported the demand to allow Mikhail Saakashvili to receive proper medical care abroad. In their opinion, the commitment of the Georgian Government to European values determines the attitude to this issue.