Azerbaijani Journalist Imprisoned Continues Fifth Day of Hunger Strike

In an Azerbaijani prison, journalist Polad Aslanov is currently on his fifth day of a hunger strike. Aslanov, who was sentenced to 13 years in prison in 2019 for allegedly spying for Iran, a charge he denies, is taking this drastic action in response to the perceived threat to independent voices in the Caucasus region.

According to Aslanova, his wife, the hunger strike began on August 29, 2021. This is not Aslanov's first hunger strike; he previously undertook one in April. Aslanova stated that her husband is experiencing dizziness and has difficulty standing for long periods.

Aslanova reported that the prison facilities have many problems. She stated that a conflict arose between Aslanov and the head doctor of the prison hospital after Aslanov demanded the result of a medical examination. Aslanova stated that the doctor advised Aslanov not to take any more medication. However, the prison authorities claim that Aslanov is 'practically healthy'.

During a routine prison hospital check-up, Aslanov was found to have liver problems. Aslanova believes that the medical results of Aslanov's examination are being deliberately delayed to worsen his health. Aslanov is demanding that prison authorities hand over medical records related to his liver problems.

The doctor who examined Aslanov was not aware of his arrest for political reasons. Aslanov was not allowed to use the kitchen and heat his meals after a conflict with the head doctor of the prison hospital. Aslanova stated that she has been demanding the result of the medical examination for around two months, but has yet to receive it.

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) filed a complaint with the Public Prosecutor's Office regarding the situation of journalist Polad Aslanov imprisoned in Azerbaijan. The Public Defender's Office responded to Aslanova's complaint letter on 31 July, stating that Aslanov was registered as 'practically healthy' in a 2020 medical examination.

Aslanov ran the independent news websites Xeberman and Press-az. His wife, Gulmira Aslanova, announced the hunger strike on August 30, 2021. This hunger strike is a response to the perceived threat to independent voices in the Caucasus region, a region where freedom of the press is under constant scrutiny.