The Armenian Government Tries for the First Time in History to Seize a Television Station: 'Media Defender'

The events surrounding MO TV are taking an extremely dangerous turn. This was announced by the 'Media Defender' initiative, which drew the attention of Armenian and international human rights organizations to the unprecedented phenomenon in Armenian history—a trial to seize a media business using state leverage.

The statement specifically mentioned: 'Months ago, the 'Media Defender' publicly raised the issue that the free operation of television companies in Armenia is under threat. Now, the issue has taken a concrete form. The events surrounding MO TV are taking an extremely dangerous turn. 'Media Defender' draws everyone's attention to the fact that, according to media reports, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has decided to have a television company that serves his political interests and is fully under his control.' It was even noted that the names of foreign businessmen experienced in media business in Armenia who are willing to acquire MO TV and turn it into Prime Minister Pashinyan's propaganda tool have been mentioned.

However, before the transaction is completed, information has emerged in the media that the National Commission on Television and Radio (NCTR) intends to impose sanctions on MO TV by revoking its broadcasting license and announcing a new competition for the frequency. This means that buyers for the television company that would be created for Prime Minister Pashinyan can participate in the frequency competition without purchasing MO TV and can acquire a broadcasting license without paying the owners of MO TV.

There is a danger that the financial disagreement between the two private entities surrounding the sale could be resolved through state leverage to seize the business. 'Media Defender' draws the attention of Armenian and international human rights organizations to this unprecedented phenomenon in Armenian history—attempts to seize a media business using state leverage. At the same time, 'Media Defender' will closely monitor the developments surrounding MO TV and will provide timely information to the public.

Regarding the issue, we will soon request clarifications from the owners of MO TV, the businessmen aspiring to acquire MO TV, and the NCTR. The clarifications will be published on the official website and Facebook page of the 'Media Defender' initiative.'