The upcoming presidential elections in Azerbaijan, scheduled for February 7, are being met with concerns about democratic conditions and freedom of speech in the country. The “Musavat” union, an organization advocating for democratic principles, has called for the authorities to provide equal opportunities for all political forces and ensure freedom of the media. According to Emin Guseynov, director of the Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety, there are no democratic conditions in Azerbaijan to hold fair elections.

Azerbaijan’s current President, Ilham Aliyev, who has been in power since 2003, signed an order to schedule the presidential elections. The purpose of these elections is seen by some as a means to prolong Aliyev’s presidency, with ruling political elites approving his candidacy. This succession of power from Aliyev’s father, Heydar Aliyev, was made possible through constitutional changes in 2002.

The “Musavat” union has announced its participation in the upcoming elections, highlighting the lack of conditions for a peaceful transfer of power in Azerbaijan since 1993. The election process has been marred by violations of the law and gross human rights violations, according to “Musavat”. The administration of President Aliyev has been accused of fraudulent practices in past elections.

Arif Hajili, the chief of “Musavat,” has criticized President Aliyev for scheduling the elections on February 7, 2024, without providing any explanation. Hajili argues that this decision limits the political potential of other forces in the country. Furthermore, the timing of the election campaigns during the cold winter season, with short daylight hours and freezing temperatures, may discourage active participation and lower electoral activity among the population. Hajili believes this serves the authorities’ interests in undermining the elections.