Azerbaijani journalist Avaz Zeynalli and internet TV executive Elnur Shukurov have each received sentences of nine years and three years, respectively, in a contentious case that raised concerns about political interference in the country’s judiciary.

Zeynalli is known for his vocal criticism of high-ranking Azerbaijani officials and accusations of their involvement in misinforming President Ilham Aliyev. Zeynalli alleges that his scrutiny of actions of high officials, particularly regarding the alleged dissemination of false information to the president, has made him a target for persecution.

Among the officials targeted by Zeynalli’s criticism is Hikmat Hajiyev, the Azerbaijani presidential advisor on foreign affairs. Zeynalli has accused Hajiyev of manipulating information, misrepresenting his messages to president Ilham Aliyev, and promoting individuals solely loyal to himself.

Adding to the controversy, Zeynalli’s wife has suggested that high officials within the Presidential Administration may have been complicit in framing her husband, though she refrained from naming specific individuals.

Officially, Zeynalli was sentenced on charges of extorting money from an Azerbaijani businessman. However, he vehemently denies these allegations, claiming that he was framed by pro-government journalist Eynulla Fatullayev.

Authorities deny any ulterior motives behind Zeynalli’s sentence, asserting that all charges are solely based on criminal allegations.