13:06, 23 September 2015

HRW condemns attack on Smbat Akopyan in Yerevan

Smbat Akopyan. Photo: RFE/RL http://rus.azatutyun.am/

The Armenian authorities should thoroughly investigate the circumstances of beating of Smbat Akopyan, a member of the "Union of Soldiers-Liberators", and punish all the persons guilty of the incident. This was declared by the international human rights organization "Human Rights Watch" (HRW).

On September 21, in Yerevan, the "Ayazn" Party organized the "March of Sovereignty" to mark the 24th anniversary of the Armenia's independence. According to Armen Mkrtchyan, a member of the "Ayazn" Party, after the end of the march, three unidentified attackers beat Smbat Akopyan, who sharply criticized the authorities. Supporters of Smbat Akopyan have announced their willingness to organize lynching in case if the police fail to punish the persons guilty of the incident.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that today, about 50 activists have gathered for a protest action in front of the medical centre, where Smbat Akopyan receives medical treatment. The activists demand to investigate the circumstances of his beating.

On September 22, the HRW appealed to the Armenian authorities with a request to investigate the incident and punish the persons guilty of committing the crime.

In particular, Rachel Denber, Deputy Director of the Europe and Central Asia Division of the HRW, has emphasized that none of participants of a peaceful protest should be afraid to be beaten for expressing own views. According to Rachel Denber, the progress of the investigation into the case will become a test for the Armenian authorities and a sign, indicating the extent of protection of freedom of speech and citizens' right to hold rallies and meetings in the country.

The HRW has also mentioned the dispersal of demonstrators in Bagramyan Avenue in this June.

Full text of the article is available on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’.

Author: Tigran Petrosyan

Source: CK correspondent