YEREVAN – The Supreme Body of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) in Armenia has issued a forceful condemnation of the recent court decision to convict Archbishop Michael Ajapahyan, describing the ruling as unlawful and politically driven.
In an official statement released on Thursday, the organization asserted that the verdict represents a direct assault on the Armenian Apostolic Church, the nation’s identity, and the fundamental rights of citizens to free expression. The ARF further contended that the case demonstrates an alarming trend toward authoritarian governance, where judicial bodies are increasingly used to suppress dissent.
“This ruling confirms that the current administration is steering the country toward dictatorship, with courts acting as an extension of executive power,” the statement read. “We are confident that accountability for these actions will come in due time.”
The condemnation underscores deepening political tensions in Armenia, as critics of the government point to the judicial system as a tool for silencing opposition.
