27 November 2009, 23:10
In Azerbaijan, trial of journalist under claim of MIA boss began
On Thursday, November 26, the Yasamal District Court of Baku, chaired by Khagani Tagiev, started litigation under the claim lodged by Ramil Usubov, Azerbaijani Interior Minister, against Eyub Kerimov, editor of the newspaper "Femida-007".
The Minister had lodged his claim under Article 147.2 of the Criminal Code ("Slander of committing an especially grave crime) and asks to bring the editor to criminal responsibility.
The "Caucasian Knot" correspondent reports from Baku that on November 26 Alirza Abilov, representing the claimant, spoke to the court and said that Eyub Kerimov had encroached, in his publications in newspapers "Femida-007" and "Azadlyg" on the honour and dignity of the police. "The abuse was in the slanderous accusation against the Minister of involvement in robberies, banditism and creation of criminal communities," said Mr Abilov.
Mr Kerimov said, in his turn that his critical remarks were not personified and were "of general character." He asked to give particular examples of "slander". At the same time he rejected all the charges presented to him.
The trial will continue on December 7 by Kerimov's speech. The above Article 147.2 entails up to two years of imprisonment.
Author: Faik Medzhid Source: CK correspondent
