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Lala Shovkat: Some Musavat members carry out campaign against me

27 July 2007 10:13 (UTC +04:00)

- What is the reason of stagnation observed in Azadliq alliance?
- The alliance continues its activity. Chairmen Council holds its meetings. There is stagnation in Azerbaijan, there are no chances for political activity. Even Azerbaijan Popular Front party was not allowed to celebrate its anniversary. We are deprived of all political activities â€“ freedom of assembly, meeting with local organizations in the regions and even of holding small events. On the other hand, free media is exerted pressure. Though all international organizations criticized it, pressures on the opposition and media continues. Therefore it is very difficult to be political opposition in Azerbaijan.
- How long will political stagnation last?
- It does not depend on political parties and opposition. Every step of the opposition is connected with people. People are very passive and indifferent at present. It impacts the political processes. Peopleâ€™s passiveness paves the way for the authoritiesâ€™ pressures. People should fight against pressures and defend their rights. This is not only their own rights, but the rights of political parties and media as well. But opposition is exerted pressure and people are very passive. People are getting more and more afraid of violence against the old and youth in mass rallies.
- What will the oppositionâ€™s chances be in 2008 presidential elections?
- Opposition always existed and will continue to exist. String opposition means string democracy, mighty and civil country. I think that this situation can not last long. The time will come when we will make a point.
- What can you say about the exchange of accusations between Musavat Party and Liberal Party?
- I have not commented on these issues and have no intention to do that. I read Evez Temirkhanâ€™s statements, and aware of Yeni Musavatâ€™s. But I do not read the newspaper any more.
- Does the newspaper run this campaign or Heads of Musavat Party organize it?
- Basically the newspaper is running this campaign. But I know that several functionaries of the newspaper lead this campaign. Be honest, I really feel sorry that this newspaper id the image of Isa Gambar. Musavat damages its founderâ€™s image. I just read some of the articles written against me, they were so disgusting. Unfortunately such articles are in the newspaper named Musavat. At one time â€œSesâ€ (Voice) newspaper was at that level. For the time being, SES is at much better level than Musavat. At one time I published my own newspaper, but never ran a campaign against any political leader.
- What are the reasons for this campaign?
- They found my step abnormal as I refused to take part in the parliament and was faithful to my signature. It is already so normal if somebody does not respect his or her signature in the society.
There is sharp cleft between the word and action. By I respect myself. The campaign they ran and articles organized against me get back to them like a boomerang.
- Will Azadlig bloc boycott the presidential elections if the political situation stays the same?
- This election will not be if the government ignores our requirements for democratic elections. We will not be able to play the role of a scenery then.
- Some opposition parties are in talks to make a new union. Why did Azadlig bloc refuse to participate in the talks?
- Azadlig bloc is based on definite position. This position is due to parliamentarian elections. The newly formed union must have its principles. I would like to underline that we do not intend to join the unions established out of Azadlig bloc./APA/