Azerbaijan, Baku, Nov. 15 / Trend M. Aliyev /
Those individuals who force people to join political parties may be convicted in Azerbaijan. This issue has been reflected in amendments to the Criminal Code submitted by the Parliamentary Committee on Legal Policy and State Building for discussion.
According to the proposed addition to Article 169.1 of the Criminal Code, a fine ranging from 1000 to 3000 manat is envisaged for any forced joining a party or maintaining membership or even too much work. The sentence could be up to two years imprisonment, chairman of the committee Ali Huseynli said, commenting on the addition to the Code.
While expressing his attitude towards the proposed amendment, MP Gudrat Hasanguliyev expressed his displeasure.
Someone could accuse the party chairman that he allegedly forced someone to join his party, he said. "The ruling party could face this problem in the future," Hasanguliyev said.
After discussions the bill was recommended for consideration at a plenary session.