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Human Rights Advocate Asks President Aliyev to Free Meydan TV Journalists

  • Obyektiv Media
  • 2 hours ago
  • 2 min read
Human rights advocate Arzu Abdullayeva formally appeals to President Aliyev for the release of 12 arrested Meydan TV journalists. She argues the charges (smuggling, money laundering) are unduly harsh and linked to their free speech rights. Abdullayeva asks for a humanitarian act to boost public trust and Azerbaijan's image.

Arzu Abdullayeva, who heads the Helsinki Citizens' Assembly (HCA) Azerbaijan National Committee and has received international awards, has formally asked President Ilham Aliyev to release the 12 arrested Meydan TV journalists.


In her request sent before the court hearing on December 12, 2025, at the Baku Court of Grave Crimes, she asks that the journalists be released from custody.


Reasons for Release


Abdullayeva says that the charges which now list smuggling, illegal business activity, money laundering, tax problems, and forgery seem too harsh, considering what the journalists did. She argues that their work is tied to their jobs and free speech. She feels that the charges are actually minor work issues or administrative errors, not actions against the state.


She said that the work of journalists and activists, which includes giving helpful criticism, is needed to build public trust and make the government better. Abdullayeva can attest to the patriotism and commitment of many of these people.


She noted that while Azerbaijan is doing well in foreign affairs, some things done in the past create negative ideas that don't fit with the country's direction now. She asks the President to release the journalists as a humanitarian act. This would show a better relationship between the government and its people, grow public trust, and improve the country's image.


Case Details


The police started action against Meydan TV on December 6, 2024. At that time, Ramin Deko, Aynur Ganbarova, Aysel Umudova, Aytac Ahmadova, Khayala Aghayeva, Natig Javadli, and Ulvi Tahirov were arrested.


Later, between February and August 2025, Shamshad Aghayev, Nurlan Libre, Fatima Movlamli, Ulviyya Ali, and Ahmad Mukhtar were also arrested. The total number of people arrested in this case is 12.


The journalists were first charged with smuggling. In August 2025, the charges got worse, and now they face eight charges under the Criminal Code. The journalists say they are not guilty and that their arrest is political to stop independent media in the country.

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