HAK: “Authorities resort to mean methods”
The Armenian National Congress (HAK) has issued a statement condemning the authorities' chase against media outlets.
The HAK raises concerns over the lawsuits against opposition-run newspapers, including Haykakan Zhamanak, Zhamanak, Chorrord Inqnishkhanutyun, Hraparak and Yerkir.
"The parliament-approved legal amendments authored by Ombudsman Karen Andreasyan have enabled some oligarchs and officials to exert pressures on the media and restrict people's right to freedom of speech," reads the statement.
Further, the HAK speaks about the libel suits filed by former President Robert Kocharian and Republican MP Tigran Arzakantsyan against "Hraparak" and "Yerkir" newspapers.
"Kocharian, who is well known for his lawsuits against media outlets, demanded that "Hraparak" assets be frozen pending a court verdict on the case. A Yerevan court granted the petition last week. The same decision was made in case of "Yerkir" newspaper. The press, regardless of its political and other trends, is an essential platform enabling people to exercise their basic rights and shaping a public opinion that helps build a civil society. The Armenian National Congress condemns the regime's disgraceful campaign. Adhering to such corrupt and mean method, they show off their fears of free speech," said the HAK.
