Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev’s party secured victory in snap parliamentary elections, the electoral commission announced. The opposition condemned the widespread violations, including multiple voting, during the election process.
Aliyev called for the early elections to avoid clashing with the COP29 climate conference in Baku. None of the elections held under his rule have been deemed free and fair by international observers.
The Yeni Azerbaijan party, led by Aliyev, claimed 68 seats in the 125-member legislature. Independent candidates aligned with the government secured 45 seats, while pro-Aliyev political parties won 11 seats. Only one opposition candidate managed to secure a seat.
International observers from OSCE raised concerns about limitations on fundamental freedoms, media restrictions, and intimidation of voters. Aliyev, in power since 2003, has faced criticism for stifling political opposition and independent media.
Despite criticisms, Aliyev remains popular due to Azerbaijan’s military victory over Armenian separatist forces in Nagorno-Karabakh. With the presidency holding most power, the parliament’s role remains limited in shaping the country’s affairs.
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