Azerbaijan's ruling party wins parliamentary election - Opposition reports electoral fraud

Azerbaijan's ruling party, New Azerbaijan, has won the parliamentary election with 68 out of 125 seats. The opposition party, Musavat, has reported widespread violations, including multiple voting.

The OSCE observers will release their findings later. The election was held early to avoid overlapping with the UN climate conference, COP29, in Baku.

The parliament in Azerbaijan has limited influence due to the president's extensive power. Previous elections under President Aliyev's 20-year rule have not been deemed free and fair by international observers.

The ruling party's victory comes amidst criticism of restrictions on fundamental freedoms, media, voter intimidation, and arrests of opposition members. Azerbaijan, with a population of 10 million, has been criticized for human rights violations.

President Aliyev took advantage of the patriotic wave following the recapture of the Nagorno-Karabakh region in September 2023. Azerbaijan is an important energy supplier to the EU. The turnout for the election was 37.24%.

Overall, the election has been marred by allegations of unfairness and lack of freedom.