MP: Constitutional referendum is logical continuation of reforms
By Gunay Hasanova
The upcoming referendum on amendments and additions to the Constitution of Azerbaijan is a logical continuation of the ongoing reforms in the area of state building, lawyer of the “Civil Society” agitation group, MP Bakhtiyar Aliyev said.
“The referendum is a logical continuation of the ongoing economic, political and legal reforms”, said the MP, adding that the current level of Azerbaijan’s development makes it necessary to make changes and additions to the Constitution.
Aliyev noted that within this framework, new regulations regarding the broader protection of human rights will be approved, as well as favorable conditions for the deepening of democracy will be created.
The MP emphasized that the main issue is that the statehood and protection of the rights of citizens will be strengthened. Thus, the changes in the Constitution will ensure the country’s transition to a new level of democratic processes.
Previously, political scientist Fikret Sadikhov also told that needs of recent years and the ongoing changes in the geopolitical situation, as well as the increasing role of Azerbaijan in the region require various transformations in the country, so introduction of certain amendments to the Constitution is a natural phenomenon.
September 26, 2016 was set as the date for referendum on proposed changes to the constitution of Azerbaijan.
In a bill recently sent to the Constitutional Court, President Ilham Aliyev proposed amendments to 29 Articles of Azerbaijan’s current constitution. The changes envisage extension of the presidential term from five to seven years, establishment of the first vice-president and vice-president positions in the country as well as abolishment of minimum age limit for presidential candidates, dissolution of parliament by the president.
Final results of the Referendum will be announced till October 21.
The last time changes to the Constitution were made seven years ago, following Constitutional referendum held in 2009.
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