Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has announced snap legislative elections, scheduled for September 1, 2024. This strategic move aims to avoid coinciding with the COP29 climate conference, which Baku will host later this year. The dissolution of the Milli Majlis (the country’s legislature) was ordered by Aliyev, who seeks to maintain his party’s dominance in parliament.
The Context
As the world prepares for COP29, Azerbaijan faces the challenge of balancing political processes with international commitments. The oil-rich nation seeks to showcase its commitment to environmental issues while ensuring stability at home.
Election Dynamics
The elections are unlikely to bring significant changes to the legislature’s composition. Under Aliyev’s two-decade rule, no election in Azerbaijan has been recognized as free and fair by international observers. The New Azerbaijan party, led by Aliyev, remains firmly in control, despite Western criticism of political oppression and media restrictions.
Looking Ahead
As the election date approaches, attention turns to the political landscape in Azerbaijan. Will the snap elections provide a fresh mandate for the ruling party, or will there be surprises? Only time will reveal the outcome, but the eyes of the world remain on Baku as it hosts both the climate conference and this pivotal electoral event.
