Three oppositionists detained in Baku

Today, Elmin Khamza, a Member of the "Republican Alternative" (ReAl) Party was arrested for 25 days for disobeying policemen. Two of his party colleagues were detained on the same charge.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that the ReAl complained about pressure after the rally in Baku on May 28, when the Republic Day was celebrated in Azerbaijan.

The action in memory of the First Republic was held in Baku against the background of the bans imposed by law enforcers. Despite the declaration of the ideals of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the authorities neglect its democratic values, the rally participants have reported.

"Elmin Khamza is charged with the same ridiculous offense as Azer Gasymly, who was arrested yesterday – 'unaddressed foul language in the street'," said Natig Djafarli, a member of the Mejlis of the ReAl Party.

The accusation of disobedience to policemen is typical for the persecution of the opposition, said Yalchin Imanov, a law expert.