OSCE Office welcomes decision by Azerbaijani authorities to release prisoners

BAKU, 21 March 2005 - The OSCE Office in Baku today welcomed the decision of the Azerbaijani authorities to pardon people imprisoned for criminal offences in connection with public disturbances in the direct aftermath of 2003 Presidential Election, including prominent leaders of opposition political parties.

Under a presidential decree of 20 March, 114 people will be discharged from serving the remainder of their sentences and released from prison. One individual's unserved term will be halved.

"This move gives new hope for positive development in the country," said Ambassador Maurizio Pavesi, Head of the OSCE Office. "We believe it will be seen by all parts of Azerbaijani society as another step towards the re-establishment of political pluralism and mutual understanding and the upholding of democratic values, as well as lead to a dialogue between parties."