‘Clerical leader’s intention to engage in politics contradicts Constitution’

AzerNews, Azerbaijan
Dec 23 2004

The Caucasus Clerical Office chairman Sheikh Allahshukur Pashazada’s
intention to engage in politics contradicts constitutional regulations
and laws, chairman of the State Committee on Work with Religious
Organizations Rafig Aliyev said.”Under the existing legislation,
religion is separate from the state, and accordingly, from politics.”
He stated that the law “On Freedom of Conscience” also forbids
religious figures’ involvement in politics.

“The establishment of a democratic, secular and a sovereign state was
the main principle in Heydar Aliyev’s activity. Individuals holding
religion-related positions cannot run for legislative bodies either.

I believe that the Caucasus Clerical Office chairman is aware of these
constitutional provisions. However, in order for the clerical leader
to resemble the Armenian Catalicos Garegin II or Georgian Patriarch
II, and particularly, Ayatollah Khomeni, his aspirations are not
sufficient, as such activity must be consistent with the law.”

Sheikh Pashazada earlier said that he intends to become actively
involved in political activity.