Father Aram Asatryan Believes His Statement Should Be Investigated

Father Aram Asatryan, the spiritual leader of Hovhannes Monastery, does not regret that an investigation is underway based on his statement. He shared this with reporters, commenting on the events that have been occurring since early this morning, especially the raids and the arrest of clergy, including the leader of the Aragatsotn Diocese.

Father Aram believes that his statement needs to be examined. “Not only this topic. If there have been pressures regarding freedom, speech, and rights, it should be investigated,” he said.

When asked why he did not attend the discussion called by the Mother See for the Grant Awards and Disciplinary Committee, the priest responded that he had not yet received a proper invitation, and the reason for the discussion had not been indicated. “The committee should first invite the bishop, who became the cause of all this (referring to the leader of the Aragatsotn Diocese, Bishop Mkrtich),” noted the priest.

It is noteworthy that Father Aram made a statement on September 16 during the broadcast of Public TV, expressing that “he participated in the opposition protests of 2021 not by choice.” Following this statement, the NGO “Institute for Reporters’ Freedom and Safety” submitted a report to the prosecutor's office. Based on the report, a case has been initiated, and today investigative actions have begun in the Aragatsotn Diocese.