Farid Mehralizada, a prominent Azerbaijani economist and journalist for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, has been arrested amid serious charges allegedly related to his outspoken commentary on government claims. Following his kidnapping on May 30, 2024, by unidentified individuals, he was placed in pre-trial detention and faced multiple serious charges, including smuggling and money laundering. His trial has elicited painful memories for colleagues, particularly Alsu Kurmasheva, who experienced her own unjust imprisonment. The lengths authorities go to silence journalists raise significant concerns about media freedom and personal safety in Azerbaijan.
Hearing that the prosecutors wanted a 12-year sentence for Farid was very painful. It took me back to my sentence where the prosecutor wanted nine years' imprisonment for me.
Farid Mehralizada's ability to explain economics simply made him a sought-after commentator and, ultimately, led to his arrest in Azerbaijan.
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