Aze.US
Authorities say audio, video, and investigative findings link former presidential administration chief Ramiz Mehdiyev and several opposition figures to alleged anti-state activities. The individuals deny wrongdoing or are outside the country.
Azerbaijan’s State Security Service (SSS) has published audio and video materials as part of an ongoing criminal investigation involving former head of the Presidential Administration Ramiz Mehdiyev and several opposition-linked figures accused of serious offenses under the country’s criminal code.
According to the SSS, the released audio recording contains a phone conversation in which Mehdiyev allegedly discusses proposals to reorganize Azerbaijan’s system of public administration and indicates a willingness to share those ideas with representatives of a foreign intelligence service via email.
In the exchange described by investigators, the foreign interlocutor reportedly responds that the matter is Mehdiyev’s personal decision, while Mehdiyev insists the proposals should somehow be conveyed to “friends,” interpreted by authorities as foreign intelligence officials.
Investigators say Mehdiyev has been formally charged under multiple articles of Azerbaijan’s Criminal Code, including large-scale money laundering, high treason, and actions aimed at the violent seizure or retention of power.
Arrest Warrants for Opposition Figures
The SSS also reported that courts have issued in absentia arrest orders for Azadliq newspaper editor-in-chief Ganimat Zahidov and Popular Front Party deputy chairman Fuad Gahramanli.
According to the investigation, Zahidov allegedly established covert contacts with foreign intelligence representatives beginning in 2013 at the request of Popular Front leader Ali Karimli, who is also charged in the case.
Authorities claim discussions included potential support for the strategic interests of a foreign state in the event of a political transition in Azerbaijan, including the country’s gradual accession to the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).
Investigators further allege that during the night of July 14-15, 2020, when large crowds gathered in Baku in support of the army, Karimli instructed associates – including Gahramanli – to infiltrate the march, organize groups, replace patriotic slogans with provocative calls, and exploit potential disorder to seize administrative buildings such as the parliament and the national broadcaster.
Karimli, Gahramanli, and Zahidov have been charged under provisions related to attempts to violently change the constitutional order.
Gahramanli and Zahidov are currently outside Azerbaijan, have been placed on a wanted list, and are subject to pre-trial detention orders issued in absentia, the SSS said.
Alleged Financial Transfers Captured on Video
Authorities also released video footage that they say shows Gahramanli receiving money following the creation of the National Council formed with the involvement of the so-called “Union of Billionaires.”
Investigators allege that financial resources were provided by Mehdiyev and businessman Abbas Abbasov to members of the council.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say additional procedural steps are expected as the case develops.