U.S. concerned about actions of Azerbaijani authorities

U.S. Embassy in Baku expressed concern over the actions of the Azerbaijani authorities towards preventing opposition groups from gathering for a peaceful protest on April 2.

“The Embassy of the United States wishes to express its concerns about actions taken by the Government of Azerbaijan to prevent the peaceful assembly of opposition groups in central Baku on April 2, including the detention of opposition activists in the days before the planned protests.”

The U.S. called on the Government of Azerbaijan to respect the rights of all its citizens to freedom of assembly and freedom of expression, which are guaranteed under the Azerbaijani Constitution and international human rights instruments, including OSCE commitments.

“We call for those detained in association with demonstrations to be afforded due process under the law, with open and transparent hearings and adequate access to legal counsel,” the statement read.