Participants in the rally in support of political prisoners Narek Samsonyan and Vazgen Saghatelyan declared that they will continue their struggle on legal, public, and international platforms.
Lawyer and editor of the publication “Antifake” Astghik Matevosyan also voiced demands addressed to the executive and judicial branches, as well as international human rights organizations.
“We call on:
The authorities of the Republic of Armenia to immediately cease political persecution of freedom of speech.
The judiciary to understand the consequences of its decisions and its responsibility for the lives and health of people. Immediately release Narek Samsonyan and Vazgen Saghatelyan.
Armenian and international media: do not remain silent, do not cover this case as a “regular criminal investigation.”
“International human rights and journalistic organizations are strongly urged to respond, document, and assess this case as political persecution.”
Addressing opposition politicians and public figures, the protesters demanding protection for the rights of political prisoners emphasized that silence is not neutrality, but participation.