Tensions Rise During Court Hearing of Robert Kocharyan and Others

The court session concerning Robert Kocharyan and others continues in a tense atmosphere at the Yerevan Court of General Jurisdiction. The situation intensified when Yury Khachaturov's lawyer, Mihran Poghosyan, continued to make accusations against prosecutor Karen Bisharyan.

“Mr. Bisharyan either carried out a political order in the past or is doing so now,” noted the lawyer.

In response, prosecutor Petros Petrosyan stated, “I ask that the defense be interrupted regarding such statements; it is not the lawyer’s place to label and assess what actions the prosecutor is taking. The prosecutor is guided by the laws of criminal procedure and the Constitution, exercising his authority.”

Judge Anna Danibekyan urged Mihran Poghosyan to express himself correctly. However, Poghosyan continued, “In my assessment, this criminal case is being conducted within the framework of a complete political order.”

Petrosyan spoke again. This statement also angered prosecutor Gevorg Baghdasaryan, who interrupted the defense lawyer. “I’m not interrupting you,” said Poghosyan, while Bisharyan urged him to calm down. “Don’t tell me what to do,” the lawyer retorted. “I will say as much as I want,” said Baghdasaryan. “Sit down; you can’t dictate,” continued the lawyer. The argument heated up further. “You shouldn’t be saying what anyone should do,” the prosecutor said.

The session also witnessed an incident between courtroom officials and spectators following the proceedings.