The Detrimental Phenomenon of Resolving Issues with Violence is Gaining Momentum: Tatoyan on the Murder in Parakar

The murder of Valodya Grigoryan, the head of the enlarged Parakar community, and his police friend in the yard of his own home represents a truly severe human loss. Unfortunately, our country is seeing a renewed momentum in the detrimental phenomenon of resolving issues through violence. This was stated by Armenia's former Human Rights Defender Arman Tatoyan on his page.

He specifically noted: “Considering reports about the detrimental developments occurring in that community, law enforcement agencies were obliged to keep them under daily scrutiny to prevent such a tragic outcome. This is the responsibility of the authorities. It is especially dangerous that the incident occurred near Valodya Grigoryan's home at night, when it is assumed that everyone, including children, would be at home.”

“The bodies responsible for criminal prosecution must ensure a comprehensive and objective, yet publicly accountable investigation, and maximum public transparency. This is especially important considering previous incidents where proper public transparency was not ensured, and even under the auspices of the government, the processes and results of criminal proceedings, including those related to violent crimes, were hidden from the public.”

“Any such manifestation will signify that this is a deliberate action by the authorities. Public accountability is particularly necessary given that Valodya Grigoryan, who achieved victory over the authorities in the local elections, was not part of the government, and the lack of proper public accountability will be perceived as targeting individuals not within the authorities, and especially public figures, with impunity.”

“I express my condolences to the family members and relatives of the two individuals who fell victim to the murder, and I wish a swift recovery to the third person who was injured during the incident,” Tatoyan stated.