Azerbaijani human rights lawyer Zabil Gahramanov arrested in politically motivated case

Azerbaijani human rights lawyer Zabil Gahramanov has been arrested in what observers describe as a politically motivated case. The member of the Azerbaijani Bar Association and defender of political prisoners was placed in three-month pre-trial detention on 25 October, deepening concerns over the ongoing crackdown in Azerbaijan.

The Azerbaijani Bar Association suspended his legal status on 8 October without publicly naming him or clarifying the grounds for the disciplinary action.

Authorities accuse Gahramanov under Articles 221.2.2 (hooliganism with resistance) and 178.2.4 (fraud causing significant damage) of the Criminal Code. These charges could lead up to seven years’ imprisonment. Relatives say that he categorically denies the allegations and asserts the case is fabricated. They believe the government wants to punish him for defending victims of police abuse. The Ganja City Court, presided over by Judge Liza Khanmamedova, ordered his detention.

This case fits a broader pattern documented by human rights monitors: the use of both disciplinary measures and criminal prosecution to suppress independent legal professionals. Analysts note that the Bar Council operates under executive influence, while the judiciary remains subordinate to the Presidential Administration allowing criminal charges to be weaponized against lawyers who challenge abuses.

Gahramanov’s arrest reflects the deepening erosion of the rule of law in Azerbaijan and poses a direct threat to access to justice.

The Free Voices Collective is urging the Council of Europe and its Committee of Ministers to treat this case as a crucial test of their commitment to protecting fundamental freedoms.