An Azerbaijani lawmaker Bahruz Maharramov has rejected claims that journalists or political figures are being imprisoned in the country, saying that recent arrests are unrelated to political activity or media work.
According to the deputy, individuals currently in custody are being prosecuted for actions he described as criminal and harmful to state interests, not for their professional or political views, Azerbaijan.US reports.
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“There are no imprisoned journalists or politicians in Azerbaijan,” the lawmaker said. “There are only citizens who are accused of acting against the state and who, voluntarily, chose to serve the interests of foreign powers.”
Criticism of foreign narratives
The deputy argued that portraying such arrests as political repression distorts reality and, in his words, amounts to defending foreign intelligence networks.
“In today’s world, anyone who respects themselves understands that condemning these arrests effectively means standing in defense of foreign intelligence structures,” he said, referring specifically to Russia’s alleged influence networks.
He added that attempts to frame the situation as political persecution are part of what he described as an artificial narrative designed to discredit Azerbaijan’s institutions.
Questions over opposition support
The lawmaker also questioned why certain foreign-based organizations and media outlets – which he said had previously failed to recognize Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and supported occupation – are now actively defending opposition figure Ali Karimli.
“Doesn’t it raise questions when forces hostile to the Azerbaijani state rush to defend the same political figure?” he asked.
He further questioned whether such organizations are genuinely interested in the welfare and rights of Azerbaijani citizens.
Remarks directed at opposition parties
Turning his criticism inward, the deputy addressed members of the opposition Musavat Party, accusing Ali Karimli of repeatedly betraying allies during critical moments over the past 25 years.
“You gather in his support every few days. What is your goal? What is your standard of democracy?” he asked.
Commenting on Azerbaijan’s new law on political parties, the deputy said it was intended as an opportunity to strengthen and normalize the political system. However, he argued that law enforcement bodies should re-examine how certain parties – which he claimed lack real public support – were granted re-registration.
“A political system should not be distorted for the sake of artificial configurations,” he said.
“Everyone is equal before the law”
The deputy emphasized that, in his view, Azerbaijan applies the law equally, regardless of political affiliation.
“In a victorious and independent Azerbaijan, everyone is equal before the law,” he said. “Political identity does not grant immunity.”
He also pointed to the recent amnesty initiative as evidence of the state’s willingness to show humanitarian consideration toward citizens, including those he described as having “lost their way.”
“This demonstrates that Azerbaijan does not need external pressure or intervention,” the deputy concluded.
