Azerbaijan's President Aliyev Calls for Early Presidential Election

Following a surge in popularity after military success in Karabakh, Aliyev is expected to secure another term amidst criticism for suppressing dissent and media.

Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has called for an early presidential election on February 7, 2024, ahead of the previously scheduled 2025 election.
Aliyev's popularity has surged following the government's full control of the Karabakh region after a successful military operation against ethnic Armenian forces.
The president, who has been in power since 2003, is expected to win a new term due to suppressed political dissent.
Aliyev's rule has been marked by criticism for stifling media and opposition, with recent arrests of high-profile journalists investigating political corruption.
The snap election announcement comes shortly before Russia's presidential election on March 17.