Seyran Ohanyan: Ruling party stages a political show in my absence

Opposition Hayastan faction head Seyran Ohanyan on Friday issued a statement condemning the parliament debate launched in his absence to lift his immunity and allow for his prosecution. Ohanyan, who is currently on medical leave, criticized the move as a violation of parliamentary procedures and a politically motivated act.

"On July 1, I formally notified the National Assembly speaker that I would be unable to attend the special session due to ongoing rehabilitation treatment, which began on June 27. I also submitted a medical certificate from the relevant facility confirming my condition," Ohanyan stated.

Despite the formal notification and medical documentation, Prosecutor General Anna Vardapetyan submitted a motion to strip Ohanyan of his parliamentary immunity, which the parliament proceeded to debate without his presence.

"Evidently, the ruling regime, fully aware of my temporary incapacity, staged this political show against me and my colleagues, serving two key purposes: first, to divert public attention from the grave challenges Armenia is currently facing due to their failed policies and second, to systematically neutralize all political, civic, military leaders, benefactors and clergy who defend Artsakh, Armenia, and the spiritual and national values of the Armenian people," reads the statement.