For decades, Ramiz Mehdiyev was a name synonymous with power, influence, and political longevity in Azerbaijan. Often dubbed the "grey cardinal," he served as Head of the Presidential Administration for a staggering 24 years and later led the National Academy of Sciences. He was, by all accounts, an untouchable figure. Until now.
The recent news that Mehdiyev, at 87, faces charges of treason, attempted seizure of power, and money laundering has sent shockwaves through the country, exposing the vulnerability even of the most entrenched figures in Azerbaijani politics. This isn't just a political reshuffle; it's an earthquake.
From Power Broker to House Arrest
The Sabail District Court’s decision to place Mehdiyev under four months of house arrest on such grave charges marks an unprecedented moment1. While house arrest acknowledges his age, the severity of the accusations – including Article 274 (Treason) and Article 278 (Forcible seizure or forcible retention of power) – suggests a dramatic and decisive move by the current administration2.
The immediate fallout has been immense. Members of the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (YAP) have quickly distanced themselves, emphasizing that "no one is untouchable." There are whispers of stripping him of state awards and expelling him from the party, consequences that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago3.
A History of Controversy: When the Cracks Began to Show
This isn't Mehdiyev's first brush with scandal, though the scale and severity of the current charges are entirely new.
His image first began to fracture during the August 2020 wedding incident4. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, with strict bans on large gatherings, a lavish wedding for his granddaughter went ahead. Videos of the event, packed with high-ranking officials, quickly leaked, igniting public fury. The scandal resulted in arrests, fines, and political reprimands, but perhaps more significantly, it triggered an intense media campaign against Mehdiyev. Accusations of being a "fifth column," a puppet of Russia, and a mastermind of corruption began to surface publicly5.
This public outcry was not entirely new. Earlier, the "Gulargate" scandal from 2012-2013 had already brought serious allegations of bribery, corruption, and even claims of involvement in a kidnapping ring to the fore, though these were largely dismissed or absorbed by the political machinery at the time6.
What Does This Mean for Azerbaijan?
The downfall of Ramiz Mehdiyev signals a significant shift. It suggests a consolidation of power and a clear message that no one, regardless of past influence, is beyond the reach of the law. While the details of the investigation remain largely under wraps, the dramatic nature of these charges implies a deep-seated power struggle or a determined effort to eradicate past influences.
Azerbaijan is watching closely. The outcome of this unprecedented trial will undoubtedly shape the political landscape for years to come, sending a strong signal about accountability at the highest levels of government.
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