Azerbaijani Presidential Election Reveals Stubborn Ancient Practices Persist

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) has reported that the snap presidential election held in Azerbaijan on February 7, 2024, took place in a restrictive environment. The election was observed by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), which found that fundamental freedoms of association, expression, and peaceful assembly were constrained.

Independent observers, such as Rza Abbaszadə and Nilufar Afandiyeva, reported pressure and were not allowed to calmly observe the election. Some observers were even attacked by other observers and CEC members. Sara Rahimova, another independent observer, was yelled at by the members of the election committee when she questioned election violations.

Journalists faced similar challenges, with some being accused of interrupting the voting and not being allowed to film. There were instances where reporters were told where to film or refused to accept their press cards, with the exception of one polling station.

The incumbent, Ilham Aliyev, secured over 92% of the general vote in the presidential elections. Aliyev, who has been in power for the past 20 years, was re-elected for a seven-year term in 2018, following a controversial referendum that extended the presidential term from five to seven years.

The election was marked by manipulation and violations, including carousel voting, ballot stuffing, and aggressive behavior towards independent observers and journalists. According to the latest results from the Central Election Commission, voter turnout was over 76 percent, but experts predict this could be two to three times higher due to these irregularities.

The OSCE has often stated that Azerbaijan ignores concerns about securing the most basic human rights protections in the country. Since gaining its independence, elections in Azerbaijan have been marred by fraud and irregularities, as stated by Berit Nising Lindeman, Secretary-General at the Norwegian Helsinki Committee.

Most such elections have led to a considerable number of judgments by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). As the election results are finalised, it remains to be seen whether this trend will continue.