04 December 2008, 11:40
In Azerbaijan, journalists Zakhidovs should be back in jail on December 8
On Tuesday, December 2, brothers-journalists Ganimat and Sakit (Mirza Sakit) Zakhidov were been temporarily released from custody to take part in commemoration of their father. Initially they were prescribed to get back into their cells on December 3, but then they were allowed to stay at large till December 8.
Zakhidov brothers, accompanied by securities, made their way to Neisari village, Shemakhin District, where the mourning ceremony took place.
The "Caucasian Knot" correspondent reports that they visited the tomb of Salim Zakhidov who died at night of December 2. In their conversation with media the brothers expressed gratitude for the permit to come and take part in commemoration of their father.
To the question whether they expect possible pardon, Ganimat Zakhidov answered that "it would be a good step." Both have emphasized that they are not guilty.
The brothers did not complain of custody conditions and health problems. Sakit Zakhidov has noted that he had problems at Penitentiary Establishment No. 14, but after transfer to another colony he feels better.
The "Caucasian Knot" correspondent was told by human rights activist Chingiz Ganizade that "it was the first precedent in the practice of the penitentiary system, when prisoners were allowed to stay for so long with their relatives to share their grief."
He has reported that the Monitoring Group of human rights organizations is preparing an appeal to President Ilham Aliev and bosses of the Ministry of Justice with expression of gratitude for such humane step. At the same time, human rights activists plan to ask President to pardon all the imprisoned journalists.
Author: Faik Medzhid, CK correspondent
