The detained director and editor-in-chief of “Abzas Media”, who have been on hunger strike for several days, have raised concerns over their treatment in detention.

Ulvi Hasanli, the outlet’s director, has been on hunger strike since July 20. He is currently being held at the Umbaki Penitentiary Complex. Editor-in-chief Sevinj Vagifgızı, who is being held at the Baku Pretrial Detention Centre, began her hunger strike on July 22.

Their families report that both journalists have experienced health complications as a result of the hunger strike. Hasanli is said to have lost 7 kg, while Vagifgızı has lost 3 kg.

During a phone call with his family, Hasanli said he fainted on July 21, but a doctor only visited him five days later. He reportedly told the doctor he was experiencing heart problems, but was informed that it was not possible to carry out an electrocardiogram (ECG) at the Umbaki facility.

Hasanli described the conditions in the punishment cell - where he is currently being held- as extremely hot and poorly ventilated. He believes this environment contributed to his loss of consciousness. He also said that he cannot take medication while on hunger strike, and feels he is being punished for his protest.

On Saturday, Vagifgızı’s family visited the detention centre but were not allowed to deliver her personal belongings. According to her relatives, the authorities only accepted bottled water, rejecting clothing and hygiene items.

Vagifgızı herself claims she is being punished by prison officials for her hunger strike.

Along with Vagifgızı, “Abzas Media” journalists Nargiz Absalamova and Elnara Gasimova have also been on an open-ended hunger strike since July 22. They are demanding the return of Ulvi Hasanli to the Baku Pretrial Detention Centre, where he was previously held.

Hasanli has now been on hunger strike for eight days.

Concerns are growing over the journalists’ health and the conditions in which they are being held.