Calls for Release as Journalist Əvəz Zeynallı Diagnosed with Late-Stage Cancer

Əvəz Zeynallı

Əvəz Zeynallı, the imprisoned founder of “Xural” internet television, has been diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer, with the disease having spread to his liver. This critical update on his health was shared by his wife, Məlahət Zeynallı, via social media and confirmed by medical sources.

According to Məlahət Zeynallı, serious health issues first arose while Əvəz was being held at Correctional Facility No. 6. Although he was in urgent need of medical imaging, an ultrasound examination was only administered after the Ombudsman’s Office intervened — and even then, it took a full month to arrange. Doctors subsequently became suspicious of malignancy and transferred him to the Medical Facility of the Justice Ministry. There, he underwent multiple blood transfusions and intravenous treatments. Approximately one month ago, he was taken to the Oncology Center for a biopsy. The results were revealed to him around April 4, 2025.

Medical professionals have now diagnosed him with metastatic colorectal cancer that has spread to the liver. Chemotherapy treatment is expected to begin imminently.

In response to the diagnosis, Məlahət Zeynallı made a public appeal for her husband’s pardon, stating:

“A presidential pardon is a direct prerogative of the head of state. Each passing day is a serious threat to Əvəz Zeynallı’s life. A humane decision to release him and ensure he receives proper treatment is still possible. But time is running out — every second counts. If something happens to him, it will be an indelible stain on history.”

A medical expert familiar with oncology cases, speaking on April 14, confirmed that recovery from such a condition is indeed possible — provided there is access to proper treatment:

“I’ve seen patients with liver-metastasized colorectal cancer recover — not just live longer, but even be rid of the tumor. But effective treatment is essential. I currently treat two cancer patients in prison. Even basic procedures like an MRI can take months to arrange. It’s not easy. I ask that Əvəz Zeynallı be given the opportunity to receive appropriate medical care according to standard medical guidelines.”

In light of these developments, a formal appeal for Əvəz Zeynallı’s release was submitted to President Ilham Aliyev on April 14, 2025. Signed by numerous public figures, journalists, and human rights defenders, the letter emphasizes that his condition requires professional treatment that cannot be provided in prison conditions. It also notes his past public service, family situation, and character, requesting a review of his sentence and immediate release on humanitarian grounds.

The letter appeals directly to the President, stating:

“Mr. President,During your leadership, you have shown compassion on many occasions, granting pardons to thousands and giving people a second chance.We trust that you will exercise your authority to ensure Əvəz Zeynallı’s release so he can receive the medical treatment he urgently needs.We thank you in advance for your understanding and humanity.”

Among the signatories are prominent human rights defenders Novella Cəfəroğlu, Səadət Bənənyarlı, and Arzu Abdullayeva; journalists Rauf Arifoğlu, Mehman Əliyev, and Ləman Ələşrəfqızı; as well as political figures such as Pənah Hüseyn and İqbal Ağazadə.

Əvəz Zeynallı has been in custody since September 9, 2022, initially charged with accepting a large bribe from the wife of Rasim Məmmədov, former head of Baku Steel Company. Additional charges were later brought against him. On February 26, 2024, the Baku Serious Crimes Court sentenced him to nine years in prison. His sentence was reduced by two months following a Supreme Court review on December 18, 2024. Zeynallı denies all charges and claims his imprisonment is politically motivated.