Vugar Iskandarov: "Most of the people of Shaki can be considered Uncle Haji"
"Until 2016, my nickname was "Karate Vugar", now it is "Deputy Vugar""
Interviews with deputies in the Azerbaijani media have mostly been related to legislation, their activities in friendship groups connected with voters, foreign organizations, individual countries, socio-political issues, current topics, etc.
In Modern.az's "The Region through the Eyes of a Deputy" project, we look at the life of our regions through the eyes of a Member of Parliament. The deputy shares his thoughts on the daily life, achievements, and future plans of the district he was elected from, outside of his parliamentary activities.
Our guest this time is Vugar Iskandarov, the deputy elected from the Shaki city electoral district No. 114 of the Milli Majlis.
He answered many of our questions about Shaki:
- Mr. Vugar, Shaki is a quite diverse region. New information about it can be obtained every time. So, what comes to your mind first when Shaki is mentioned?
- Shaki is one of Azerbaijan's oldest settlements and historical cities. This year marks 2714 years since the establishment of Shaki city. What makes Shaki interesting is the preservation of its history. There are over 100 monuments of world and national importance here. Nazim Hikmet has an interesting quote about the Shaki Khan's Palace: if Azerbaijan had nothing else, it could show just the Shaki Khan's Palace and make it known worldwide. The Kish Albanian temple is considered the mother of all similar monuments in the world. Norwegian traveler Thor Heyerdahl stated that "if we accurately research history, our roots (of Norwegians – ed.) also belong to this territory". On the other hand, Shaki is known worldwide for its sericulture. There are regions where hotels have been newly built or are being built. In Shaki, however, there are 5 caravanserais. All of them have a history of more than 300 years. These caravanserais resemble today's malls and hotels.
Shaki is the only city in Azerbaijan where 24 types of sweets are baked. If they say in Baku or other regions that they will bake Shaki pakhlava - it will never turn out right. But some of our sweets - shakarbura, pakhlava - can be baked in any region. There are 65 types of pilaf in Azerbaijan, 38 of which we presented at the culinary festival in Shaki in 2009. Shaki is Azerbaijan's permanent capital of craftsmanship. A minimum of 14 ancient folk crafts are still preserved in Shaki.
- Usually, a region is better introduced by its offspring, people who have emerged from it. In this regard, who has introduced Shaki and through what activities?
- If you research prominent figures of Shaki on internet resources, you will see that there are truly countless such people. Mirza Fatali Akhundzade, who brought the Latin script alphabet to Azerbaijan, and Rashid bey Afandiyev – both were from Shaki. The first woman to write an opera, Shafika Akhundzade, Yashar Garayev, who left deep marks in Azerbaijani science, and media researcher Shirmammad Huseynov are also from Shaki. I can also add Bakhtiyar Vahabzade in poetry, Jovdat Hajiyev, Emin Sabitoglu, Javanshir Guliyev in music, Rasim Ojagov, Ismayil Osmanli, Lutfalli Abdullayev in cinema to this list. Vagif Mustafazade, who brought jazz to Azerbaijan, was also originally from Shaki. His father lived, studied, and worked in Shaki, then they moved to Icherisheher. Although Vagif was born in Baku, he maintained his connection to Shaki. All the people I mentioned are individuals who have contributed not only to Azerbaijan but to the culture of the Caucasus, the East, and the world as a whole. When Mugham is mentioned, Karabakh comes to mind, but when Alasgar Abdullayev from Shaki passed away, Khan Shushinski said that today we are not burying Alasgar, we are burying the "Rahab" mugham. Although Ashiq art belongs to Gazakh-Tovuz, Molla Juma is from Shaki. Konul Khasiyeva, and the sisters Gulyaz and Gulyanaq, who keep Mugham alive today, also keep Shaki alive.
- So, how is the theater tradition preserved in Shaki in modern times?
- What I've said will probably be confirmed by theater scholars; among regional theaters, Shaki has a completely distinct style and path. There are quite a lot of Azerbaijani theater lovers who await the tours and performances of the Shaki theater. Prominent directors like Huseynagha Atakishiyev and Jahangir Zeynalov worked at the Shaki theater for 10 years. For many years, no student graduating from the Azerbaijan University of Culture and Arts has gone to work in Shaki. All students strive to stay in Baku. Therefore, the Shaki theater trains its own acting staff and provides them with employment. These young people can handle even the most challenging roles. I also attend all premieres at the Shaki theater.
- The population of each district is distinguished by its uniqueness. In this regard, how would you describe the people of Shaki?
- Generally, the people are intellectuals. Working with them is both easy and difficult. It's difficult because they are very knowledgeable. One needs to speak to them in legal language. The easy part is that they understand as soon as something is said. Secondly, the people of Shaki are very witty. I don't know if it's from the food they eat or the water they drink, but even small children are like that. They are very quick-witted. They know good anecdotes. I tell our friends who come from outside to be careful when speaking to the people of Shaki. Their musical perception and love for culture are high.
- Some say that the people of Shaki are stingy..
- I have heard this many times. It is completely the opposite. The people of Shaki are among the most generous people in Azerbaijan. When the most hospitable place in Azerbaijan is mentioned, Shaki comes to everyone's mind. How can hospitable people be stingy? I am against applying a subjective approach to the entire region. Those who told me this have never been able to provide facts. My friends also know me as an extremely generous person. The people of Shaki are discerning in economic matters. It is difficult to deceive them, perhaps that claim originated from this.
- The people of Shaki are also called "Azerbaijan's Jews"...
- A considerable number of Jews have lived in Shaki. Certain characteristics have remained with the people of Shaki from the Jews. The people of Shaki have sharp intellect and logic. Every year, among those who score the highest in university entrance exams, there are also people from Shaki. Shaki always makes its mark in education.
- The quick-wittedness and intelligence of the people of Shaki did not deter you from running for candidacy in this district, did it?
- I am also from Shaki. So, I am not insignificant myself. If I had come from another region, I would have had difficulties. The people of Shaki knew me from the beginning. Both because I was a professional athlete – I was Shaki's first athlete to gain international recognition – and because I was closely involved with them when I worked in Shaki before becoming a deputy. I used to live abroad. Since 2006, I have been the Head of the Department for Shaki city at the Ministry of Youth and Sports. I have seen the extraordinary nature of over 60,000 people from Shaki since then. The reason for my candidacy from Shaki was our party's decision. In addition to the party's decision, I would have submitted my candidacy from Shaki myself. During my time working in Shaki, I participated in both joys and sorrows. For this reason, both the people of Shaki know me well, and I know them well.
- The people of Shaki are also known for the famous anecdote character Uncle Haji. So, does Shaki have an Uncle Haji now?
- Many conversations have been held about him. Now, most of Shaki's 200,000 inhabitants can be considered Uncle Haji. Even when you speak to a child, you worry that they will give you such an answer that you will be stunned.
- In Shaki, everyone – be it a deputy or a head of executive power – is given a nickname. What is your nickname?
- Until 2016, my nickname was "Karate Vugar". Then, when I worked as a chief, they called me "Executive Vugar". They called me that until 2021. Now, when I ask friends and acquaintances, and when I check on "Getcontact" myself, I see that my new nickname is "Deputy Vugar". Here, even for those elected as deputies in a single convocation, their nicknames often remain the same.
- You talked a lot about the history of Shaki. So, what have you done for Shaki?
- To date, my connection with Shaki has not been severed. I am often in Shaki. We are able to establish close relations with the local executive power. This is because the statistics provided by local administrations are important in addressing the city's problems and resolving them. At the same time, we analyze these issues together with them. Because I can voice the problems we see in parliament and send a deputy's inquiry to the government. As a result, we have achieved solutions to many issues. For example, we worked together with the local executive power to improve the water and sewage system. By the way, on behalf of the people of Shaki, I once again thank Mr. President.
By area, Shaki is the second largest district. Solving problems in such a large district is difficult. Moreover, Shaki is an ancient and historical city, and repairing its roads is also challenging. The potholes in the roads were eliminated, and a beautiful asphalt road was laid. The second issue concerns the Gurjana River, which has divided Shaki city into two for nearly 50 years. Its retaining walls were in a dilapidated state. After we raised this issue, the river passing through the city center is now indistinguishable from rivers in European villages. One of our main goals is to work towards the Shaki branch of the Azerbaijan State Pedagogical University becoming an independent university. Because Shaki has the right to this, and that branch has every opportunity to become an independent university. We are also working on Shaki's football club. A good club has been formed, and I try to pay attention to the club. We hold receptions twice a month and meet with people. Although we cannot solve every issue raised, we provide legal support so that people know what to do and how to do it. We regularly visit the families of martyrs. We have also provided significant support for the gasification of the area. People had been suffering for a long time.
However, there are issues that cannot be resolved. Because we do not have a magic wand. The main thing is to work conscientiously.
- What specific steps have you taken to transform the Shaki branch of the Azerbaijan State Pedagogical University into an independent university?
- I am grateful that the Cabinet of Ministers and the Prime Minister paid attention to this issue. The matter in question was also included in the Cabinet of Ministers' bulletin. It became clear that the issue is on the agenda. Although a specific date is not yet known, I am trying to keep it on the agenda and continuously publicize it. Because Shaki has the right to this. The branch, in terms of its building, technical base, and faculty, is ready to operate as Shaki State University. Among the branches of the Pedagogical University, students admitted with the highest scores study here. In 2026, I will bring this issue back to the agenda, and we will begin negotiations.
- So, have you asked anything from Shaki's business people?
- Even when I was elected president of Shaki's football club, we were able to form the team with several business people. We also had a transfer from "Neftchi", and we have a pro coach. Our friends help us in this area.
- How do you see the future of Shaki's football club? Will there be players from Shaki in the club, or have you invited footballers from other regions?
- There are more from other regions. Recently, there was also a transfer from "Kapaz". For now, children's football in Shaki is good, but there is a relative decline in the middle-aged category. That's why there are more acquired players. I think we will be promoted to the Azerbaijan First League this season. After that, we will see if we can reach the Premier League or not.
- The poor relationship between heads of executive power and deputies is a scenario we frequently encounter. How are your relations?
- Our relations are not just good, they are very good. The goal of both of us is related to the development of Shaki. We do not jeopardize our relationship by bringing up personal matters. First and foremost, our connection affects 200,000 people. Where the relationship between the deputy and the head of executive power is poor, the people suffer. Elkhan Usubov has been working in Shaki for 15 years; he is an intellectual. Both of us are there due to the trust of Mr. President, meaning we do not have the luxury of having a bad relationship. Even if I were an opposition or independent deputy, I would maintain good relations with the local executive power. There should be no other alternative here.
- How are your relations with the ministers? Do you ever have disputes with ministers regarding Shaki's problems or your personal issues?
- Whichever minister I have called, all of them have answered my phone, and we have spoken. Even when they couldn't speak, they called back later. I frequently appeal to ministers regarding the problems of the people of Shaki. As for my personal problems, I have not yet appealed to anyone about them. If any of my calls or appeals had gone unanswered, I would definitely have mentioned it. Since I haven't brought up my personal issues until now, we haven't encountered such problems. Our work has always been with the region I represent and within the framework of respect.
- What is the reason for not having personal requests - do you not have a need, or is it due to other matters?
- Needs arise. Everything happens in life. But I have always thought that I should solve everything myself. If I cannot solve it, I will appeal.
- Is there an issue that you could not solve yourself, but also did not appeal about?
- Yes, there is, but I don't want to say what it is.
- Do you have relatives living in Shaki, and have you been able to provide them with jobs?
- I have relatives. I haven't found a job for my brother's son yet. That's his own fault. He has no specialty. He used to work as a waiter, then he quit. All my other close relatives are working, but none hold high positions. My sister's son got a job at ASAN-xidmət after several years through an exam, and my other sister's son is a taxi driver. My brother is not working due to certain health problems. My elder sister is a technical worker at a kindergarten in Shaki. My wife is also from Shaki. Although all Shaki people are quick-witted, their women are even more so.
- Shaki is known as a region with Azerbaijan's richest and most diverse culinary traditions. Have you tasted all the dishes in Shaki cuisine? Which are your favorites among these dishes?
- When Alexandre Dumas traveled to the Caucasus, he stayed in Shaki for a long time. Upon his return, he was given a good feast in Batumi. He said there was no food there. The host of the feast was disturbed by these words and said that there was so much food on the table, what more did he want. He replied, you wouldn't know, the dish I want is Shaki jiz-biz.
Although Shaki is mainly famous for its piti, its cuisine is richer than you might think. Shaki's main dish is pilaf. Among the dishes I have eaten, I like örüşdə, which belongs to Shaki's national cuisine. It is an interesting dish prepared with village chicken. I also like the chestnut and black pilaf, which everyone knows but is especially well prepared in Shaki. Shaki also has its pickles. Now they attribute them to other regions - I won't name names - but they all belong to Shaki.
- Mr. Vugar, you are also a member of the Youth and Sports Committee of the Milli Majlis. How are your relations with the minister? Have you had any requests?
- Our relations are moderate. In the future, we will also have a request to the minister regarding the Shaki stadium. But so far, I haven't had any specific requests. Our conversations have been related to national sports and issues concerning Shaki.
- Does the Ministry utilize your experience?
- No, mainly television channels do.
- You have been in the field of sports for a long time, but your experience is not being utilized. What is the reason for this?
- I have achieved world and European level successes in sports. I have been in this field for 15 years. I participated in the development of two state programs in this area. Our relationship with the ministry has always been very good. In recent years, however, there have been significant personnel changes. Many employees changed their jobs. We have established relations with the new staff, but can we meet regularly? No. However, I don't think there's anything malicious here. Either they are uninformed, or there is no need. They rely on their own experts and specialists. Let it be. We have no claims in that sense. If I am needed somewhere, I will be there wholeheartedly, without expecting anything in return.
- Although the Ministry of Youth and Sports works with sports to some extent, it seems that youth have been forgotten. How would you justify this?
- The Ministry of Science and Education carries out certain work related to youth. However, this ministry does a lot of work related to youth. Examples include combating harmful habits, proper organization of leisure time, etc. But is it enough? I don't think so. Now, it is necessary to investigate unique issues that resonate with the spirit of young people. Youth exist not only in Baku but also in villages. Open and confidential public surveys should be conducted among them. What do young people want? This needs to be learned, and then an action plan should be prepared. Doing this is very easy and necessary. Sometimes, the desires of young people do not align with reality. For example, a person establishes a party or becomes a member of it to come to power. If today we are doing the exact opposite, it means our desires and reality have not aligned...
- You are also a member of the Agrarian Policy Committee. Are you satisfied with the activities of the Ministry of Agriculture?
- The main priority of our country is the development of the non-oil sector. The main share of this falls to the agrarian sector, and in this sense, we have a very great responsibility. In the current session, our hearing regarding the Azerbaijan State Agrarian University is expected. We will have many questions. There are so many universities, but when we need an agronomist, we bring them from Turkey...
- How are your relations with the Ministry of Agriculture?
- I have a very good relationship with both the Minister and the Head of the Apparatus. If any issue related to this field arises in Shaki, we can at least discuss it with the minister within a day.
- We talked about parties and football. Politics is also a football field. If we liken politics to a football field, in what position can we see you as a representative of YAP?
- I am a forward. I was also a forward in football.
- Have you been able to score goals?
- Our critic friends who watch our debates also say that I score. Sometimes they even call me a bombardier.
- Has anyone scored a goal against your team's net?
- If we sent a weak player in that game, it's possible. We must try not to be weak players. Because the team's captain is a person who has stunned the world. We do not have the luxury of being weak players and conceding goals.
- Have there been instances where your opponents sometimes played on your side?
- Naturally, such things exist in politics. Sometimes there are even those who score an own goal.
- You yourself say that there have been transfers to Shaki's football club from other regions. So, how do you view transfers in politics?
- Normal. We have a belief that someone who was in one party before cannot switch to another party today. A person can only not change their mind if they are dead. As we advance in the political arena, we see paths changing. Because politics is not just about doing everything correctly; there must also be an element of play. The outcome of political processes should be calculated for the benefit of people and society. A person should not sell their nationality, state, or people. But a person who does not achieve success in politics or a party can change their position.
- There are people considered the faces of YAP in the media. What do you think, will you be able to become a face of YAP in the future, or do you see yourself as a face of YAP?
- I try with all my might to represent the country's politics in the media. But I cannot consider myself the face of our party. If they consider me so in the future, that would be great, but the responsibility is daunting. YAP is the largest party in the Caucasus. Its founder is the Great Leader, and its chairman is Mr. President... I understand the responsibility.
