New details have emerged regarding the criminal investigation against Ramiz Mehdiyev, member of the Security Council and former head of the Presidential Administration of Azerbaijan.
According to APA, the case involves allegations of actions aimed at seizing state power and committing treason.
Background and Alleged Plan
APA reports, citing reliable sources, that Mehdiyev allegedly drew up a plan for a coup d’état with foreign backing and transmitted it through his own channels.
The report claims that he sought to exploit the period of heightened tension in Azerbaijan-Russia relations following the downing of an AZAL aircraft in Russian airspace on December 25 of last year. Moscow’s refusal to issue an apology or pay compensation reportedly sparked anger in Baku, fueling intense public debate across both countries.
During that time, Mehdiyev is said to have conveyed through intermediaries that a plan to seize power was ready and that he expected support from Moscow.
On May 9, at the height of the diplomatic strain, an event organized under Soviet symbols by Imishli District Council of Elders chairman Saleh Samadov – described as a long-time associate of Mehdiyev – led to his dismissal and arrest by the State Security Service.
Exposure of the Alleged Plot
The plan came to light after a meeting between the presidents of Azerbaijan and Russia in Dushanbe, during which the Russian side reportedly informed Baku of Mehdiyev’s proposal and the individuals allegedly involved. The report suggests that Russian officials distanced themselves from Mehdiyev and notified Azerbaijan of his actions.
Past Positions and Conduct
The article recalls that Mehdiyev’s proximity to Moscow has long been noted since the Soviet period. As head of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) after leaving government, he was accused of fostering internal disputes and misuse of authority. In February 2022, he resigned citing age, though he later appeared at the Academy’s offices for undisclosed meetings with visiting Russian representatives.
Audits by the Chamber of Accounts covering 2020–2023 revealed significant irregularities at ANAS. Prosecutor General Kamran Aliyev confirmed earlier this month that several criminal episodes have been investigated, with some already referred to court.
Family and Assets
APA also references media reports on the extensive assets of the Mehdiyev family, including real estate and business holdings. It notes prior controversies such as a large wedding held in 2020 during strict pandemic restrictions.
According to official data, members of the Mehdiyev family received agricultural subsidies for land holdings in Novkhani, and a majority share in BTB Bank is registered to his daughter-in-law, Nigar Ismayil gizi Mehdiyeva.
Charges and Legal Consequences
Ramiz Mehdiyev faces charges under Articles 278.1 (actions aimed at seizing state power), 274 (treason), and 193-1.3.2 (legalization of property obtained through crime) of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan.
The Sabail District Court of Baku ruled on October 14 to place Mehdiyev under house arrest for four months pending trial.
Legal expert Shamil Pashayev told APA that if convicted of especially serious crimes, the court may consider depriving Mehdiyev of his honorary titles and state decorations in accordance with the law.
Mehdiyev holds several of Azerbaijan’s highest honors – including the Heydar Aliyev, Istiglal, Shohrat, and Sharaf orders – and is a full member of ANAS.
According to YAP Veterans Council chairman Arif Rahimzade, Mehdiyev will also be expelled from the party.
