Azerbaijani Opposition Unmoved By Police Threats

An opposition demonstration on 26 November drew thousands (RFE/RL) 17 December 2005 -- Azerbaijan's main opposition coalition says it will go ahead with an unsanctioned protest rally tomorrow despite a threat by Baku police to break it up.

Addressing reporters after talks at the Baku police headquarters, the rally's organizers said today that the Azadliq (Freedom) coalition will proceed with the demonstration on Baku's central Qalaba Square.

Earlier today, Baku Deputy Police Chief Yasar Aliyev cautioned the opposition against its plans. He said security forces would take resolute steps to prevent the demonstration unless the opposition agrees to stage the rally on a suburban motor-racing track.

Police violently dispersed a previous opposition rally on 26 November.

Azadliq and other opposition political groups say last month's parliamentary elections were fraudulent and demand that a new vote be held.

(Turan/APA)