Azernews.Az

The Council of Europe Secretary General Terry Davis has said holding free and fair elections in Azerbaijan was possible.
"This, however, does not mean that the October presidential poll will definitely be democratic," he told Radio Liberty.
Davis emphasized that the CE Parliamentary Assembly will observe the polling, and if the election does not turn out to be fair, a very critical report will be prepared.
"I am anticipating foreign observers` feedback on how free and fair the election is. I expect that report to be ready after the elections, i.e. prior to my visit to Azerbaijan in December," he said.
Asked about the government`s recent rejection of some recommendations of the Venice Commission on changes to election laws, Davis said the CE only makes suggestions, while governments have the right to either accept or reject them.
"But I hope that Azerbaijani authorities will take seriously the criticism coming from the CE, particularly the Venice Commission, which is part of it. I am disappointed when they do not accept our recommendations but this is their right."
Davis emphasized that there was a need for major progress in protecting freedom of expression in the country, and there should be no jailed journalists in countries like Azerbaijan.
"I have repeatedly expressed my concern over their imprisonment and openly stated this," the CE secretary general added.