The day will come when everyone will answer both before the law and their conscience – Artur Vanetsyan

The leader of the Homeland Party, Artur Vanetsyan, gave an interview to Hraparak paper, in which he addressed the prosecution and arrest of Khachik Galstyan.

“The legal aspect of Khachik Galstyan’s defense is being handled by a team of lawyers, and according to their assessment, there are absolutely no grounds for criminal prosecution or detention in his case. The political dimension of what is happening is visible to the public. Of course, our struggle is not only for Khachik Galstyan’s freedom, but for the freedom of all political prisoners. It does not matter whether a person is a party member or not; if someone holds views different from those of the current authorities he/she is persecuted for that. Unfortunately, today Armenia has an unprecedented number of people imprisoned for their political views. I believe such a situation has never occurred before,” Vanetsyan said. 

Asked whether the number of political prisoners might increase as the pre-election campaign intensifies, the Homeland Party leader responded:

“Definitely yes. The authorities do not even try to conceal it. They openly state that anyone who ‘misbehaves’ will be taken away – using their own expressions, referring to ‘KGB pawns’ and making similar threats. But that does not intimidate us, and I am confident it does not intimidate others either. Depriving someone of their freedom is no longer an effective tool of fear in Armenia. People are prepared to face imprisonment for their ideas and their struggle.”

Referring to Khachik Galstyan’s significant contribution to the party’s work, Artur Vanetsyan emphasized that his removal has complicated the party’s activities. He also warned that, during the pre-election period, further arrests of opposition figures could weaken the opposition camp.

“Of course, that risk exists. For example, Khachik Galstyan is the Secretary General of the Homeland Party, and especially in this pre-election period, he was carrying out substantial work. Removing him from the system, even for one or two months, significantly complicates our activities, both ideologically and organizationally. But I repeat, we are prepared for this. I am certain Khachik is prepared as well, as are those who are currently imprisoned. No matter how difficult the situation becomes, I do not see it as insurmountable. The day will come when everyone will answer both before the law and before their conscience. Responsibility for all this cannot be avoided.”