Accra:Turkish columnist Celal Çiftçi, facing criminal charges from Azerbaijan's Prosecutor General's Office, has issued an apology. He shared his statement on his X account, formerly known as Twitter.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, Çiftçi expressed regret for the pain and distress his comments caused in Azerbaijan. He apologized to both the state and the people of Azerbaijan for his remarks, requesting that his apology be accepted.

Çiftçi, while emphasizing his role as a journalist, stated that his comments were intended to address issues related to the hijab and freedom of religion and conscience. He acknowledged that he should have been more cautious about the potential repercussions of his language and should have articulated his views more clearly.

He further clarified that he had no intention of interfering in Azerbaijan's internal affairs, inciting public unrest, or calling for any unconstitutional changes. Çiftçi also denied any accusations of promoting religious hatred or discrimination.