Azerbaijani CEC chairman highlights ties with Türkiye at meeting with TURKPA

Chairman of Azerbaijan's Central Election Commission (CEC) Mazahir Panahov has met with Ahmet Zenbilci, head of the TURKPA delegation observing the upcoming snap parliamentary elections in Azerbaijan.  

Panahov emphasised the strong bond between Türkiye and Azerbaijan, characterised by mutual respect, solidarity, and partnership. He detailed that more than 600 international observers and 112,000 local monitors are overseeing the election process, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media. 

To ensure transparency, 1,000 polling stations across Azerbaijan are equipped with webcams, enabling real-time online monitoring on Election Day without prior registration. Panahov also noted the active participation of political parties and civil society organisations in the election oversight.   Panahov provided details on the extensive preparation for the upcoming snap parliamentary elections. He revealed that 6,478 polling stations have been set up nationwide, including 6,343 permanent and 135 temporary locations.

Notably, 2,471 stations have been equipped with ramps for disabled voters. Additionally, three organisations have requested permission to conduct exit polls during the early elections.   Panahov noted that this election will be the first to cover Azerbaijan's entire sovereign territory, with 54 polling stations established in recently liberated areas to accommodate over 42,000 voters. A total of 990 candidates are vying for parliamentary seats.  

Ahmet Zenbilci, head of the TURKPA delegation, expressed his approval of the election observation process and commended the inclusion of the liberated territories. He praised Azerbaijan's demonstration of democratic principles and voiced confidence in the successful conduct of the elections.