29 January 2008, 12:12
Azerbaijan: journalist Zakhidov continues his hunger strike
In Azerbaijan, Sakit Zakhidov, journalist-satirist of the "Azadlyg" newspaper, who was convicted and now in prison, continues his protest hunger strike started on January 26.
So far, there is no official information about S. Zakhidov's particular claims, however, the available initial information states that the reasons of his hunger strike are related to his poor state of health and his unbearable custody conditions.
Rena Zakhidova, the wife of Sakit Zakhidov, has informed the "Media Forum" website that the journalist complains of his poor health and is going to lodge a court claim against Nazim Alekperov, head of the Penitentiary Service of the Ministry of Justice.
In this context, as she said, S. Zakhidov puts forward four requirements: his transfer to the prison closer to his house, a visit of his custody by the Azerbaijani Ombudsman Elmira Suleimanova, his treatment in hospital and resignation of the Chairman of the Council of the Press Aflatun Amashov.
Earlier, Elmin Guseinov, chairman of the committee in defence of Zakhidov's rights, informed the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent that Sakit Zakhidov protests "against moral tortures and inhuman custody conditions.
