As Heidar Aliyev continued to receive treatment May 9 at a Turkish military hospital, speculation mounted in Baku over whether the ailing Azerbaijani president will ever recover sufficiently to handle his executive responsibilities. Government officials maintain that Aliyev remains in charge, but opposition politicians are already anticipating a transition period.

Accurate information concerning Aliyev's condition at Gulhane hospital in Ankara remains elusive. Official sources insist the president is not seriously ill, while opposition media has suggested that Aliyev's condition is terminal. The Turan news agency reported May 8 that Aliyev's health had improved and that he was moved out of intensive care, adding that he remained in isolation with access limited to only a few key aides and medical personnel. The news agency said Aliyev continues to suffer from serious cardiovascular, kidney and liver ailments.

Over the past few days, authorities have stressed the president remains at the helm of government. Defense Minister Safar Abiyev told ANS television that he was in daily contact with Aliyev, saying; "There is no problem." That message was reinforced in an interview with Ilham Aliyev, the president's son and potential successor, broadcast May 8 on state television. "He is in contact with relevant ministers and is issuing instructions," Ilham claimed. "He is in a normal working regime.