Severe Political Persecution in Various Forms: The Armenian National Congress on the Verdict of Bishop Mikayel

The entire process of criminal prosecution against Bishop Mikayel, including the initiation of a fabricated criminal case, the searches conducted at the Shiraz Diocese and the bishop's residence, the operation of special forces within the premises of the Mother See for the arrest of Azhakaryan, followed by his detention and the judicial farce that ensued, clearly indicate that severe political persecution is taking place.

This statement was released by the Armenian National Congress (ANC). It emphasizes that these actions are part of the illegal acts unleashed by the authorities against the Armenian Apostolic Church and its spiritual leadership. The intent is to restrict freedom of speech and expression, seriously harming Armenia’s international reputation.

The ANC is confident that this case will ultimately come to an ignominious end, whether in domestic courts or at the European Court of Human Rights.