Azerbaijan's Snap Parliamentary Election: A Glimpse of Change or Status Quo?

Azerbaijan recently concluded its snap parliamentary elections, the first since reclaiming the Karabakh region. Historically, elections in Azerbaijan have been criticized for lacking fairness. The New Azerbaijan party, led by President Ilham Aliyev, is expected to maintain dominance. Observers await the preliminary assessment by international organizations slated for Monday.

Azerbaijan wrapped up its snap parliamentary election Sunday evening, a pivotal poll marking the first since the nation regained control of the Karabakh region.

Historically, Azerbaijani elections, dating back to its post-Soviet independence in the 1990s, have faced criticism for not being fully free or fair. The current vote is projected to uphold the dominance of President Ilham Aliyev's New Azerbaijan party.

Observers and international organizations now await the preliminary assessment on the election's integrity and fairness, scheduled to be presented by the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe come Monday.

(With inputs from agencies.)