Baku:The Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) Presidium has approved the expulsion of Ramiz Mehdiyev, following a discussion at a recent meeting regarding his membership. The decision comes after Mehdiyev was sentenced to 14 years in prison by the Baku Court of Grave Crimes for actions deemed as betrayal against the state.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, the meeting was opened by ANAS President, Academician Isa Habibbayli, who highlighted Mehdiyev's criminal activities that discredited both the country and the Academy, violating the requirements set by the Academy's Charter. These acts were described as a betrayal of Azerbaijan's independent statehood and unworthy of an Academy member.

The Presidium members strongly condemned Mehdiyev's actions, which included attempts to change the constitutional order and acquire illegal wealth, labeling these acts as unacceptable for a scientist. The decision to expel Mehdiyev was put to a vote and approved, pending final approval by the ANAS General Assembly.

The Baku Court of Grave Crimes had convicted Mehdiyev under several articles of the Criminal Code, including high treason and actions aimed at forcibly seizing power. Despite the 14-year sentence, the court decided to suspend the prison term due to Mehdiyev's age and health conditions. Additionally, his property will be confiscated, and there is a recommendation to strip him of state awards. Mehdiyev previously served as Head of the Presidential Administration from 1995 to 2019.