Elnur Shukurov

Elnur Shukurov (Elnur Şükürov) is a journalist and editor working in a leadership position at “Səda TV” LLC. He was arrested on September 12, 2022, by the Prosecutor General’s Office on charges of “aiding in receiving a substantial bribe,” within the same criminal case as Əvəz Zeynallı (Avaz Zeynalli). The prosecution claims that Shukurov (Şükürov), along with Zeynallı, accepted a bribe from the family of imprisoned businessman Rasim Mammadov (Məmmədov), promising to create a positive image for him. However, Shukurov (Şükürov) rejects these accusations, alleging that he was arrested for not testifying against Zeynallı.

Shukurov`s (Şükürov’s) detention has also led to widespread public discussions. Many human rights defenders, journalists, political figures, and activists contend that his arrest is politically motivated and a targeted “order” against his critical work. They point out that Şükürov has produced programs on “Səda TV” exposing illegal actions of state officials and tried to give a voice to people whose rights have been violated. They demand Shukurov`s (Şükürov’s) release.

The trial related to Şükürov’s arrest continues. The prosecutor has sought an 8-year prison sentence. Shukurov (Şükürov) maintains his innocence and protests his detention as politically motivated.