Former Contract Soldier Promised Treatment by Defense Ministry, Yet No Action Taken

The "Dirkpah" organization of participants in the four-day war will hold a protest tomorrow, August 12, in front of the Ministry of Defense of Armenia, demanding help for former contract soldier David Hakobyan.

In an interview with NEWS.am, the head of the organization, Manuel Manukyan, explained what kind of protest they will conduct in front of the ministry. "David had stomach inflammation nine years ago; he underwent surgery and since that day, the right side of his body has not been functioning properly, including his arm and leg, and no one has taken responsibility for that. Recently, he underwent the removal of two more organs, of which he was unaware. A month ago, he staged a hunger strike in front of the Ministry of Defense for three days. We went again to raise our voices; he was promised by the ministry that he would be sent abroad for treatment, but a month later it became clear that they had deceived him. This indifference has compelled us to go and talk personally with the minister tomorrow. I should note that previous ministers were also aware of this, but no solution has been provided to the issue," said Manuel Manukyan.

Manukyan also mentioned that the former contract soldier's parents are ill, the family is in dire circumstances, and doctors have told him that his condition will continue to deteriorate.