Avez Zeynalli

Əvəz Zeynallı (Avez Zeynalli), a prominent journalist, is the founder and CEO of “Xural Yayınları” LLC, the chief editor of the online channel “Xural TV,” and the former chief editor of the “Xural” newspaper. He was arrested on September 12, 2022, by the Prosecutor General’s Office on charges of “aiding in receiving a substantial bribe.” This accusation is based on journalist Eynulla Fətullayev’s claim that Zeynallı accepted a 20,000 manat bribe from the family of imprisoned businessman Rasim Məmmədov, promising to create a positive image for him. However, Zeynallı denies these allegations, asserting that the audio recording used as evidence has been tampered with.

Zeynallı’s arrest has sparked widespread public debate. Many human rights defenders, journalists, political figures, and activists argue that his detention is politically motivated and orchestrated in retaliation for his critical work. They point out that Zeynallı has produced programs on “Xural TV” about cases like “Tartar,” “Gandja prisoners,” “Tovuz prisoners,” and others whose rights have been violated, shedding light on illegal actions by state officials. They demand Zeynallı’s release.

The trial related to Zeynallı’s arrest is ongoing. The prosecutor has sought a 10-year prison sentence. Zeynallı maintains his innocence and protests his detention as politically motivated.