25 May 2007, 15:15
Advocate of Azerbaijani ex-Minister for Economic Development thinks him to be a political prisoner
Litigation on the case of Farkhad Aliev, former Minister for Economic Development of Azerbaijan, is conducted with serious violations and in fact in closed regime, which is another proof of its political character; therefore, Farkhad Aliev can be already regarded a political prisoner. Elton Guliev, ex-Minister's advocate, has expressed this opinion in his talk to the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.
According to his version, for more than a year the investigation has been held under the charge of a coup d'etat. However, this accusation is absent in the judicial materials. The Public Prosecutor's Office filed civil suits against the Aliev brothers, which is contrary to the legislation.
The lawyer has added that non-admittance of independent mass media into the courtroom is a violation of their rights, and on the other hand, it is an indicator of unfair trial.
The "Caucasian Knot" has reported earlier that Farkhad Aliev was accused under Articles 179.3.1, 179.3.2 (embezzlement or defalcation), 192.2.1, 192.2.2 (illegal entrepreneurship), 206.4 (contraband), 213.4 (tax evasion), 308.2 (abuse of service position), 311.3.1, 311.3.2, 311.3.3 (bribe-taking), and 313 (forgery in public office).
Originally, Farkhad Aliev was accused of conspiracy in an attempt of violent seizure of power (October 2005). However, later this accusation was isolated into a separate proceeding, and the ex-Minister was accused of economic crimes.
Author: Zaur Rasulzade, CK correspondent
