Armenian opposition MPs denounce trial of podcast hosts as political persecution

Armenian opposition lawmakers on Friday accused the authorities of orchestrating politically motivated prosecutions against two detained opposition podcasters, calling the charges “fabricated” and part of a broader campaign to silence dissent.

The first court hearing opened in the case against Imnemnimi podcast co-hosts Vazgen Saghatelyan and Narek Samsonyan. Prosecutors have asked the court to extend their pre-trial detention by three months, citing risks of “illegal acts” if released.

Garnik Danielyan, a MP from the opposition Hayastan faction, told reporters the proceedings stemmed from political orders. “The two men should not be in court at all. The charges are fabricated and amount to political persecution,” he said, adding that podcasters were showing “dignified resilience” despite government repression.

Hayk Mamijanyan, secretary of the opposition Pativ Unem faction, said Armenia now has more than 50 political prisoners, calling it unprecedented. “All of them are dissidents. This is an attempt to pressure not only individuals but also their colleagues in the struggle,” he said.

Mamijanyan also accused the Armenian authorities of targeting media outlets, citing pressure on Antifake.am, including confiscation of its equipment. He stressed the process was instigated by National Assembly Speaker Alen Simonyan. “This is something I had never heard of in my life – a case triggered by a speaker’s social media post and then pursued legally,” he said.

The opposition lawmakers criticized international organizations and embassies for remaining silent, arguing that geopolitical interests were being prioritized over human rights and rule of law. “The Armenian leadership is ready to use all tools to cling to power,” Mamijanyan added.