Akif Gurbanov Reports Threats Against Family Amid “Toplum TV Case” Hearings

On July 21, another hearing in the ongoing “Toplum TV Case” was held under the supervision of Judge Azer Taghiyev.

During today’s session, the defense lawyers for Toplum TV co-founder Alasgar Mammadli and journalist Farid Ismayilov petitioned for their release under house arrest, citing serious health concerns. The defense argued that the request was necessary both from a legal and humanitarian standpoint.

However, the judge denied the motions, stating that no medical reports or formal assessments had been submitted to confirm the alleged deterioration of their health conditions.

One of the defendants, Akif Gurbanov, head of the Institute for Democratic Initiatives (IDI), concluded the statement he had begun during a previous session. In his remarks, Gurbanov revealed that since the beginning of his public and political engagement, his family members have repeatedly faced threats and pressure, which he attributes directly to state authorities. He emphasized that the government bears full responsibility for these actions.

The next hearing has been scheduled for August 4.

Background:

The arrests related to the “Toplum TV Case” began in March 2024, targeting independent media and civil society actors in Azerbaijan.

A total of 10 individuals have been charged under the case. While the initial accusations were based on smuggling, the charges have since been escalated to more serious offenses, raising concerns among rights groups and international observers.