Amendments did influence on the "case of seven"
The recent amendments to Articles 225 and 300 of Armenia's Criminal Code had no influence on the trial of the seven oppositionists charged with last year's unrest in Yerevan City. The only change referred to the separation of the "case of seven".
During today's court sitting the prosecutor in case, Koryun Piloyan, petitioned the court to change the accusation in view of the amendments to Articles 225 and 300.
According to Koryun Piloyan, proceeding from the disputed Articles, the accusant declines part of the accusation and brings new charges. Namely, the charges under Article 300 (usurpation of the government), and Article 225 (disorders accompanied by murders) have been lifted.
Following the Prosecutor's speech, the court recessed for two hours to study the petition.
Sasun Mikayelyan's lawyer, Hovik Arsenyan says Prosecutor Piloyan has filed new charges under Clause 1 of Article 225 which foresees a sentence of 4-10 years.
"Our clients have committed no crime and the article needn't be applied against them. This is a political feud. Suren Sirunyan bought 20 cubic metre wood on February 29 and took it to Liberty Square. Now he is accused of inciting disorders on March 1. If Sirunyan was to provoke disorders, why should he fetch fuel to the peaceful demonstrators? Illogical indictments are brought against the defendants," says Hovik Arsenyan.
With regard to the ten victims of March 1 Hovik Arsenyan said: "The assassinations still remain uncovered and are separated from the case of seven. But the assassinations are closely connected with the mother case."
Presently, relatives and supporters of the political prisoners grouped in the courtyard are vociferating: "Freedom!"
