The Verdict Against Archbishop Mikael is an Obvious Manifestation of an Anti-Church Campaign, Says Mother See

The Mother See has issued a statement: 'Today, on October 3, the court, continuing to violate the fundamental principles of justice, sentenced His Grace Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan to two years in prison.

From the outset, it was obvious that the criminal prosecution against the leader of the Shiraz Diocese has political motivations and is an explicit manifestation of the authorities' anti-church campaign.

The unjust verdict regarding the imprisonment of His Grace Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan is further evidence of political retribution, a gross violation of the principles of freedom of speech and religion, and a direct challenge to democratic society.

Firmly condemning these blatant injustices, we reiterate that the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin will pursue legal avenues, including international mechanisms, to restore the rightful rights of His Grace Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan,' the statement reads.