Heydar Aliyev was an Azerbaijani politician. From 1993 to 2003, Aliyev served as the president of Azerbaijan. His presidency has attracted criticism and Aliyev was accused of establishing a dictatorial, repressive, and authoritarian regime. He was also accused of muzzling the press and rigging elections. He died of ill health on 12 December 2003.

Abulfaz Elchibey was an Azerbaijani political figure who served as the President of Azerbaijan from 17 June 1992 to 24 June 1993. He was stripped of his presidency in a coup d'état in 1993. After the end of his presidency, Abulfaz Elchibey served as the leader of the opposition.