The Cell Where I Am Held Is a Pigsty and a Doghouse: Mikhail Ajapahyan

I do not ask for freedom from anyone. I am free. This was declared today by Archbishop Mikhail Ajapahyan, the leader of the Shirak Diocese, during a court hearing.

"Life imprisonment would be better, you have no valid accusations against me, you are carrying out an order. Overcome your fears and be free. The cell where I am held is a pigsty and a doghouse; it is disgraceful for the state," Ajapahyan said.

It should be noted that Judge Armine Meliksetyan extended the pretrial detention of the Archbishop for another month today. During his speech in court, Mikhail emphasized that the conditions of his imprisonment are humiliating. He asked the judge if keeping him in such conditions brings honor to the state.