Azerbaijani Journalist Transferred to Georgian Prison Infirmary
Azerbaijani journalist Afgan Sadiqov, who was arrested in Georgia in August at the request of the Azerbaijani government, has been moved to a prison medical facility due to his worsening health condition after being on a hunger strike since September 21.
Sadiqov’s wife, Sevinc Sadiqova, informed RFE/RL on October 8 about her husband’s transfer to the medical facility, expressing concern about his health. Sadiqova explained that her husband’s health had significantly deteriorated as a result of his hunger strike, prompting the authorities to move him to the medical facility for urgent medical attention.
Afgan Sadiqov, a journalist and a human rights defender, was arrested in Tbilisi, Georgia, on charges of using a fake passport at the request of the Azerbaijani government. His detention has sparked international condemnation, with many expressing concerns about his safety and well-being.
Sadiqov’s hunger strike was a protest against his arrest and extradition to Azerbaijan, where he feared he would face unfair trial and ill-treatment. His decision to go on a hunger strike had taken a toll on his health, prompting the authorities to take action and transfer him to a medical facility.
The case of Afgan Sadiqov highlights the challenges faced by journalists and human rights defenders in Azerbaijan, where freedom of speech and the press are often suppressed. International organizations and human rights groups have been calling for Sadiqov’s release and for the authorities to respect his rights.
As Afgan Sadiqov remains in a prison medical facility, his wife and supporters continue to advocate for his release and for his health and well-being to be prioritized. The case of Afgan Sadiqov serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting journalists and human rights defenders and upholding their rights and freedoms.
