Political Prisoner Ali Karimli Denied Permission to Attend Father’s Funeral

Ali Karimli, chairman of Azerbaijan Popular Front Party, a prominent opposition figure imprisoned since late 2025, was denied temporary release to attend his father’s funeral last week. Penitentiary authorities cited security concerns in their rejection.

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from domestic and international observers who view it as part of a broader campaign to dehumanize political detainees. Karimli’s lawyer stated that the request was filed three days in advance and met all procedural requirements.

The European Parliament had previously called for Karimli’s release in a 2025 resolution.