Human Rights Defender Bashir Suleymanli Alleges Court Misconduct and Inhumane Detention Amidst Ongoing NGO Crackdown

Bashir Suleymanli

Bashir Suleymanli, the imprisoned head of the Institute of Civil Rights and a prominent political prisoner, has voiced strong dissatisfaction with his recent court proceedings and the conditions of his detention. Through statements released via his relatives, Suleymanli alleges aggressive behavior from a judge during his appeal hearing and describes inhumane conditions in both court holding facilities and the pre-trial detention center.

Suleymanli's complaints stem from a July 16, 2025, hearing at the Baku Court of Appeal, which reviewed the extension of his pre-trial detention. The appeal was not granted, meaning Suleymanli remains in custody. This decision followed a July 9 ruling by the Binagadi District Court to extend his detention by an additional three months.

Bashir Suleymanli was arrested on March 14, 2025, alongside Mammad Alpay Mammad-zadeh, executive director of the "Election Observation" Alliance. Their arrests are part of a wider criminal case initiated against non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Azerbaijan, which has seen approximately 50 individuals drawn into the investigation.

Those involved, including Suleymanli, face serious charges under the Criminal Code, specifically Articles 193-1.3.2 (legalizing a large amount of property obtained through criminal means), 308.2 (abuse of official powers leading to grave consequences), and 313 (official forgery).

Suleymanli specifically criticized Judge Emin Aliyev, who presided over his July 16 appeal hearing at the Baku Court of Appeal. According to Suleymanli, Judge Aliyev behaved "aggressively" throughout the session, repeatedly interrupting him and preventing him from speaking. "This behavior constitutes a gross violation of my freedom of expression and my right to self-defense," Suleymanli stated. In response to what he describes as unprofessional conduct, Suleymanli announced his intention to file formal complaints with both the Judicial-Legal Council and the Ombudsman's Office.

Beyond the courtroom, Suleymanli highlighted severe and "inhumane" conditions in the facilities where prisoners are held. He reported that when brought to court, 40-50 prisoners, including those suffering from various illnesses, are confined for "2-3 hours in one room" that is described as cramped and airless. He emphasized that "staying in such conditions is dangerous for health."

Suleymanli also detailed problems within the pre-trial detention center regarding the delivery of essential items. He stated that dairy products sent to him are provided in open containers, causing them to spoil quickly and become unusable. Furthermore, he claims that items like coffee and books, which are not legally prohibited, are withheld from him. He believes these restrictions further violate his right to defense and his right to live in humane conditions.

The criminal case extends beyond Suleymanli and Alpay Mammad-zadeh. Other prominent figures targeted include Hafiz Hasanov, head of the "Law and Development" Public Union, who is currently under house arrest. Khalid Aghaliyev, coordinator of the "Media Law" Institute, was also detained on the same day as Suleymanli but was later released. Mehriban Rahim-li, Azerbaijan advisor to the German Marshall Fund (GMF), has been brought to criminal responsibility and placed under police supervision.

Additionally, Asaf Ahmadov, head of the Ganja Regional Community Center, and social worker Zamin Zaki were placed in pre-trial detention on April 9, with their detention periods also extended on July 9. Absentee arrest warrants have been issued for Subhan Hasanli, head of the Social Rights Center, and public activist Aytaj Agazade, as they are not in the country, and they have been placed on the wanted list. Several other NGO leaders and members involved in the case have been placed under police supervision during the investigation.

The ongoing investigation and the allegations raised by Bashir Suleymanli underscore persistent concerns regarding the treatment of human rights defenders and the broader state of civil society in Azerbaijan.