The government of Azerbaijan has sent an invitation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) to observe the national referendum scheduled for September 26, as reported by PACE. According to the report, the PACE bureau will consider this invitation at its next meeting on September 5.
Background: The referendum on amendments to the Constitution will be held on September 26. The Draft Referendum Act stipulates establishment of the posts of first vice-president and vice-presidents of Azerbaijan. It also extends the term of office of the president from 5 years to 7 years. Minimum age requirements for the president and parliamentarians are removed. Besides, the president is granted the power to dissolve the parliament.