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.