A short while ago, the leader of the Strong Armenia party, chairman of the Tashir Group of companies, Russian Armenian businessman Samvel Karapetyan arrived in court amid cheers from his supporters.

After a ten-month investigation, Karapetyan's trial had begun Wednesday—and under several Criminal Code articles, from legalization of criminal funds to public calls for seizing power.

The court session on Wednesday was adjourned for two days and will continue today.

Ahead of the first court hearing, the Karapetyan family's lawyers have filed a motion with the court to consider the matter of releasing Samvel Karapetyan from his current house arrest as a priority.

Attorney Aram Vardevanyan had stated earlier: "On April 21, the Strong Armenia party has convened a congress, and it is important that Samvel Karapetyan has the opportunity to fully participate in the political process before that congress. From the point of view of guarantees of competition, equality and the electoral process, this is an obvious necessity, we hope that this will be ensured, and we are sorry that this burden has fallen on the shoulders of the judiciary."

Also, the lawyer had reminded that the Central Electoral Commission of Armenia is already accepting applications from political forces, compiling lists, and this process will continue until April 23—ahead of the June 7 parliamentary election in Armenia.