ANC expresses unwavering support for Armenian Apostolic Church

The Armenian National Congress (ANC) has voiced strong support for the Armenian Apostolic Church and denounced the repression against its leadership, accusing Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of eroding the foundations of Armenian statehood and constitutional order.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the ANC warned that criminal proceedings had been initiated against Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II for allegedly obstructing the enforcement of a court ruling involving Bishop Gevorg Saroyan, former head of the Masis (Massyatsotn) Diocese, with a travel ban imposed on him as a measure of restraint.

The opposition party called the move “an unprecedented violation of the constitutional order in Armenia’s history”, stating it complied with Pashinyan’s order.

The ANC argued that the case stems from a court order demanding compliance with a decision that falls strictly within the church’s internal jurisdiction. It cited Armenia’s 1991 law on freedom of conscience and religious organizations, which stipulates the separation of church and state and prohibits government interference in religious institutions’ internal affairs.

“The court has trampled on the constitution,” the statement said, adding that law enforcement agencies had launched criminal proceedings for failure to comply with an unlawful ruling. The party accused state institutions of serving the prime minister’s personal interests rather than protecting human rights.

The ANC urged international organizations to assess "flagrant violations" of Armenia’s human rights commitments. The party reiterated its “unwavering support” for the Armenian Apostolic Church and condemned repressive measures against Catholicos Karekin II and other senior clergymen.