Mane Tandilyan Announces Hunger Strike

The president of the "Living Country" party, Mane Tandilyan, has announced a hunger strike in solidarity with Ruben Vartanyan. "Today marks the 12th day Ruben Vartanyan has been on hunger strike. Each additional day of this hunger strike leaves an irreparable mark on his health, with the tragic potential of ending his life. It’s hard to imagine what Ruben is going through, but one thing is clear and leaves no room for self-deception: Ruben's decision to take this step indicates that all other options have been exhausted. This is a call to the international community to pay attention to the illegal judicial farce against Armenian prisoners held in Baku. Ruben and our other captives are fighting for the dignity of Armenia and the Armenian people, for which they endure unimaginable hardships, remaining psychologically and morally stronger and more resilient than many of us. I am ashamed even to acknowledge that you are still in the prisons of Baku and that no effort has been made to influence things, at least enough to prevent you from having to resort to such extreme measures. But I want you to know: our homeland is waiting for you, return to Armenia safe and sound. Fully supporting the demands underlying Ruben Vartanyan's hunger strike, I am starting a hunger strike in Liberty Square from this moment, as a request for Ruben to end this hunger strike that poses an irreparable threat to his life. Ruben, worthy son of the Armenian people, your homeland needs you and is waiting for you here..." this was stated in Tandilyan's announcement.