Baku: Over 70,000 local observers will be involved in monitoring the upcoming municipal elections in Azerbaijan. ‘We are involving the state bodies responsible for conducting elections in awareness-raising activities,” said Mazahir Panahov, the Chairman of the Central Election Commission (CEC), during a press conference held today.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the CEC Chairman emphasized that this practice has proven effective and has been highly appreciated by international organizations. These bodies play a significant role in preventing violations during the voting process. Panahov noted that responsible parties should organize their activities strictly in accordance with the requirements of the Code. He stated that Azerbaijan is very close to achieving an ideal level in the steps taken to ensure democratic and transparent elections.

The main criteria for such elections include the participation of observers and the freedom granted to media representatives, both of which are ensured in Azerbaijan. Any individual who is 18 years old can observe the election without being denied when they apply. In these elections, there will be 70,625 local observers. Azerbaijan is noted as the only country where media representatives can cover the election without needing to apply to any organization. Additionally, the use of web cameras is part of the election practice in Azerbaijan.