A journalist from an independent Azeri newspaper was jailed for three years on Tuesday, in a case that critics say highlights an erosion of human rights.
Aidyn Janiyev, from the opposition newspaper Khural, was arrested in August on hooliganism charges after he published a story critical of leaders loyal to the authorities.
The daily stopped publishing in October, after court officers raided its newsroom and seized equipment.
Editor-in-chief Avaz Zeynally was arrested this month on bribery and extortion charges and faces up to 12 years in jail.
Azerbaijan's strongman leader Ilham Aliyev has been lambasted by rights groups for curbing public dissent and freedom of speech.
Aliyev's government maintains that Azerbaijan's citizens enjoy full freedom of speech and a thriving opposition press.
(Reuters)
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
