Opposition Activists Stage Anticorruption Rally In Baku

Opposition activists with signs at Baku demonstration

Hundreds of opposition activists attended an anticorruption protest in Azerbaijan's capital, Baku.

The protest on October 7 was organized by the National Council of Democratic Forces -- an umbrella organization bringing together some of Azerbaijan's opposition forces.

Baku police said in a statement that some 1,200 people attended the rally.

Azerbaijan's Turan news agency said thousands participated in the rally held in the Yasamal District Stadium.

Protesters shouted “End to Corruption” and “Freedom for Political Prisoners!”

Opposition rally crowd in Baku

Supporters of the Popular Front Party, People's Democratic Party, National Statehood Party, Musavat Party Youth Organization, Muslim Union, and NIDA Movement participated in the protest.

No incidents occurred during the rally.

Activists accuse Azerbaijan’s government of repressing journalists, civil society activists, and human rights workers.

They have urged Western governments to do more to confront authorities in Baku.

The oil-rich South Caucasus nation has faced growing social and economic problems stemming from falling world oil prices in recent years.

With reporting by Turan