Intigam Aliyev, "Home These Days Is My Cell"

Czech republic -- Intigam Aliyjev, the recipient of People in Need’s 2012 Homo Homini human rights award, participating in a discussion hosted by RFE/RL in Prague on 05Mar2013

“I just want to see this process end as soon as possible. The verdict is clear. You also have a lot of work to do. You must go, finish your work. And I go to my own home”, said Intigam Aliyev at his hearing today April 7 addressing the judge and the prosecutor. Aliyev clarified the reference to “home” saying he is not naïve and that these days home is his cell, just like it is for many other honest people who are in prison today. “I want to go to my friends”, he added.

His words were greeted with applause inside the court room.

During the hearing, Intigam Aliyev accused the judge and the public prosecutor for deliberately prolonging the process.

The next hearing is scheduled for April 14.

Intigam Aliyev, the human rights lawyer was arrested August 8, 2014. He is charged with tax evasion, abuse of office, embezzlement and illegal business.

International rights watchdogs consider the arrest politically motivated.