AbzasMedia has released a public letter from journalist Ulvi Hasanli, currently held at the Baku Investigation Detention Center No. 1.
In his correspondence, Hasanli outlines the various pressures and challenges faced by detainees, emphasizing concerns regarding the treatment of prisoners and the systemic issues within the penal system.
Reasons behind the pressure
Hasanli identifies two primary reasons for the imposition of restrictions and threats within the Baku Pretrial Detention Center (BIT). Firstly, he asserts that prison authorities are attempting to suppress the exposure of alleged tortures and illegal practices occurring within their walls. The administration, he claims, is determined to carry out abuses, including systematic torture and inhumane treatment, without scrutiny or reporting from those incarcerated. He notes that as they have sought to shed light on these injustices, prison officials have resorted to coercive tactics, restricting visits and communication with family members.
For example, Hasanli recounts a period during which he and his fellow detainees were barred from any contact with the outside world for three months, severely limiting their ability to communicate with loved ones. Following this initial ban, contact was only intermittently permitted, with Hasanli himself able to see his young daughter just a handful of times over the past year.
Allegations of unprofessional conduct
The journalist also describes a troubling incident during a recent family visit, where the presence of a psychologist, Major Tarana Guliyeva, raised concerns. Rather than facilitating a supportive environment, Hasanli felt the psychologist’s role was intrusive, as she observed the meeting instead of stepping aside. This prompted Hasanli to question the appropriateness of such arrangements, leading to a heated exchange with prison officials about the conditions of their visits.
Conditions and corruption in the detention system
In addition to these personal grievances, Hasanli paints a bleak picture of the broader issues plaguing the Azerbaijani penal system, including corruption and inadequate conditions for prisoners. He cites instances of extortion upon arrival at prison and highlights the dire state of quarantine facilities, where detainees are often held in unsanitary conditions. The overcrowding in BIT, which houses approximately 4,000 prisoners despite being designed for 2,500, exacerbates the already challenging circumstances. Hasanli emphasizes that many prison officials seem unaware of the relevant laws and regulations governing their roles, contributing to an atmosphere of impunity and abuse.
Reflecting on the troubling similarities between his experiences and those of political prisoners in Iran during the 1980s, Hasanli criticizes the prevailing culture of fear and repression within the Azerbaijani state apparatus. He contends that such practices undermine the fundamental values of justice and human rights, drawing a stark parallel between historical injustices and the current treatment of journalists and political dissidents in Azerbaijan.
Ongoing investigations and arrests
The letter also touches on the recent arrests connected to AbzasMedia, which has been recognized for its investigative work into corruption. Following the detention of Hasanli and his colleagues, the outlet has faced intensified scrutiny and claims of illicit activities, which Hasanli vehemently denies. The Azerbaijani government has been criticized for using legal mechanisms to silence dissent and restrict freedom of expression.
Hasanli concludes with a call for accountability and reform, urging those in power to address the systemic issues within the penitentiary system and respect the rights of prisoners and journalists alike. The Penitentiary Service has not yet responded to Hasanli’s allegations.
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