2023-08-12 11:52:20
Ambassador Richard D. Kauzlarich writes
The arrest of Azerbaijani economist Gubad Ibadoglu was condemned in the main article “Kleptocracy Returns” published on August 7. This illegal action of the Baku regime angers me on two levels. First, his arrest deprived him of his human rights and physically harmed him and his wife. Second, this incident is part of a decades-long pattern of repression against anyone who expresses their fundamental right to criticize the autocratic kleptocracy that rules Azerbaijan. Inventing “crimes” (in this case currency counterfeiting) against political opponents; forcibly arrest the “criminal”; insulting and intimidating innocent family members; waive legal representation and contact; and detain the accused in appalling prison conditions, including torture.
Mr. Ibadoglu is not alone in this matter. Turan.az reported in February that there are more than 90 political prisoners in Azerbaijan. Everyone deserves to be free. Mr. Ibadoglu’s condition calls for immediate action as the authorities are depriving him of the medication he needs to treat several serious medical conditions.
International media attention is essential to highlight these intolerable violations of human rights. Statements by the US Embassy and the State Department calling for Mr. Ibadoglu’s release have been ignored. His life is in danger. Now is the time to act decisively. Now is the time to impose sanctions on the Azerbaijani officials responsible for his illegal arrest and detention. We have done this in the case of Russian officials. The Azerbaijani authorities act with impunity. The United States must take the lead in showing that there are consequences for continued violations of human rights.
Richard D. Kauzlarich, Falls Church
Former US Ambassador to Azerbaijan in 1994-1997.
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