Azerbaijani Journalist Imprisoned Continues Fifth Day of Hunger Strike
Azerbaijani Journalist Polad Aslanov Enters Fifth Day of Hunger Strike
Azerbaijani journalist Polad Aslanov, who was sentenced to 13 years in prison in 2019 for allegedly spying for Iran, has entered his fifth day of a hunger strike. Aslanov's wife, Elmira Aslanova, announced his hunger strike on Monday, August 29, 2022.
Aslanov is demanding that prison authorities hand over medical records proving he has liver problems. According to Aslanova, her husband was found to have liver problems during a routine prison check-up. The doctor who examined Aslanov did not know about his arrest for political reasons.
Aslanov has been experiencing dizziness and difficulty standing for long periods. He has held hunger strikes in the past, including one in April 2022. Aslanova emphasized that her husband highlights problems that arise in prison, and therefore faces discrimination.
The conflict arose between Aslanov and the head doctor of the hospital when Aslanov demanded the result of a medical examination. The head doctor did not allow Aslanov to use the kitchen and heat his meals after the conflict. Aslanova believes that the medical results of Aslanov's examination are being deliberately delayed to worsen his health.
The response from the Public Defender's Office noted that Aslanov passed a medical examination in 2020 and was registered as 'practically healthy' at that time. However, Aslanova emphasized that the doctor advised Aslanov not to take any more medication.
Aslanova sent a complaint letter to the Public Defender's Office, and received a response on 31 July. The public defender to whom the letter was sent is Elchin Mammadov. Aslanova stated that the prison authorities claim Aslanov is 'practically healthy'.
The article discusses the future of journalism in the Caucasus region and the need for independent voices. A community of readers is building a newsroom in response to the challenging journalism environment in the region. The need for transparency and accountability in the medical treatment of prisoners is also highlighted in the article.
