YEREVAN – The defense team for businessman Samvel Karapetyan has denounced a recent appellate court ruling that maintained his pretrial detention, characterizing the decision as politically motivated.
In an official statement released Monday, Karapetyan’s legal representatives described the court’s action as a predictable outcome in what they allege is a compromised judicial process. The defense council asserted the ruling represents an effort to manipulate Armenia’s legal institutions for political purposes.
“The continued detention of this prominent businessman under these circumstances undermines Armenia’s standing as a democratic state governed by law,” the statement read.
The appellate court also addressed a separate case involving allegations of money laundering and additional economic violations. Prosecutors had previously appealed aspects of this case, though specific details regarding the nature of their appeal were not disclosed.
Karapetyan’s defense team vowed to persist in their legal efforts, stating they would “continue the struggle for justice through all available legal channels.”
The case has drawn significant attention amid ongoing discussions about judicial independence and business climate in the country.
