Defense lawyer Elton Guliyev told a news conference on Thursday that the CE has its own criteria on political prisoners and Aliyev falls under this category. He also dismissed the reports saying the former minister had never been engaged in politics, Assa-Irada reports.

"Firstly, Farhad Aliyev was a member of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party's Political Council. Secondly, he held the post of minister and his views contradicted the current state governance."

Guliyev said none of the charges against his client have been corroborated throughout the investigation over the past nine months.

"Under the existing laws, the charged person should not remain in custody if it is not necessary," said the lawyer. He said allegations that Aliyev could flee prosecution [if he is released on bail] are groundless.

Guliyev cited what he described as pressure on Aliyev's relatives, saying that besides the ex-minister’s brother, former president of major AzPetrol oil company Rafig Aliyev, his six other relatives, including his wife's relatives, security guard and others, have been arrested. The properties of Aliyev’s family members are under arrest as well, he said.

The lawyer stressed what he called a biased attitude toward the former minister, adding that he had no confidence in a fair outcome of the case.

Aliyev, who was arrested in October 2005, is accused of involvement in a coup attempt, organizing mass riots, abusing authority and embezzling state property.

/AzerNEWS/