YEREVAN. – Today, a criminal case is underway, in the framework of which RPA Chairman, 3rd President of the Republic of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan is also involved as a defendant on a false and absurd pretext. The executive body of the former ruling Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) noted this on a statement

“Initiation of a case against him based on only one testimony taken under suspicious circumstances, unlawful conduct by the RA Special Investigation Service during the investigation, biased targeting of Serzh Sargsyan by the state propaganda machine indicate that the case is directed and ordered within the framework of which politically motivated process is being implemented with a criminal packaging,” the statement also reads. “It is noteworthy that the launch of this trial takes place against the backdrop of the incompetent security and diplomatic activity of the authorities in the context of the Artsakh negotiations.

By doing so, the authorities aim to divert the attention of the Armenian people from many other internal and external issues that are escalating day by day.

Reaffirming our earlier assessments in this regard,

• We express our support and solidarity to the 3rd President of the RA Serzh Sargsyan,

• We urge the judicial authorities of the Republic of Armenia to ensure a fully fair and lawful judicial process,

• We draw the unbiased attention of local and foreign media to this trial,

• In case of necessity, we will take all legal measures to protect Serzh Sargsyan's rights, freedom and dignity.”