Azadliq newspaper is facing the growing threat of closure, its editor Rahim Hajiyev told the Reporters’ Freedom and Safety (IRFS) today. According to Hajiyev, Azadliq is experiencing financial strains due to the failure of Gasid Press Distribution Company to pay for the sold papers and also large fines imposed on Azadliq.
“As many of you know, Gasid is to pay a 40,000 AZN debt to us. In addition, the Supreme Court upheld a 30,000 AZN fine on Azadliq, imposed in a defamation case launched by Baku Metro head Tagi Ahmadov. Although we agreed with Ahmadov on gradual payment of the fine, the arrestment of our bank account has not been lifted and Yasamal District Court will consider this matter on May 31st. Head of Bina Shopping Mall, Kabira Mammadova, has also filed a similar defamation lawsuit against us demanding financial compensation. In addition, the Ministry of Defense has also filed a 100,000 AZN defamation lawsuit against our newspaper” said Hajiyev, who believes that all of this is done to silence the Azadliq newspaper.