03 April 2010, 09:00
Azerbaijani Ombudsperson reports to parliament, opposition is critical
On April 2, the National Assembly of Azerbaijan listened to the report of Elmira Suleimanova - the national Ombudsperson - for 2009.
The Ombudswoman said that in 2009 her office received 8800 applications, including 7365 complaints. 1239 complaints were on the actions of the police (including 112 - on the road police), 982 - on the courts, and 415 - on the prosecutor's office. 688 complaints were on the bodies of executive power, 441 - on non-enforcement of judgements, and 205 - on municipalities. 642 more complaints referred to encroachments on citizens' rights to social security.
Last year, as a result of Ombudsperson's reaction to complaints, in total 151 facts of violations of citizens' rights and freedoms by policemen were registered, including 38 illegal detentions, 18 unjustified deliveries to the police. 247 policemen were punished for their illegal actions, 26 persons were dismissed and 208 were exposed to disciplinary sanctions.
The pro-governmental majority supported the Ombudsperson's report; however, the opposition criticized the document. By the results of parliamentary debates, the report was adopted with 98 votes pro and 5 votes.
Author: Faik Medzhid Source: CK correspondent
