Azernews.Az

President Ilham Aliyev has ordered to remove his portraits from public places throughout the cities and regions of Azerbaijan. The instruction was issued at a Cabinet of Ministers meeting on Tuesday dedicated to the outcomes of the country's socio-economic development in the first half-year.
Head of the President's Office socio-political department, Ali Hasanov, said the head of state had taken the step to provide equal conditions for candidates to run for the presidential election in October.
"The president therefore addressed local and central executive bodies to ensure that his photos and portraits are removed from all streets and squares of the city [Baku]. He said he saw no need for these portraits and wants to be embedded in the Azerbaijani people's memories and hearts by his substantial deeds," the presidential administration official said.
Hasanov said President Aliyev had instructed executive authorities to ensure that the vote would be fully democratic and transparent. Common places should be available for election hopefuls to meet with their voters.