Radio Free Europe, Czech Republic
April 9, 2004

OSCE Wants Probe Of Attack On Journalists In Armenia
Prague, 9 April 2004 (RFE/RL) — The Organization for Security and
Cooperation In Europe (OSCE) has called on Armenian authorities to
investigate attacks on journalists that occurred during an opposition
rally in Yerevan this week.

The OSCE envoy to Armenia, Ambassador Vladimir Pryakhin, said any
violence against journalists must be condemned and criminal
proceedings started against the attackers. He urged Armenian
authorities to keep their promises to take the necessary measures.

Unknown assailants are reported to have grabbed two television
cameras and two cameras from journalists who were covering the 5
April demonstration and smashed the equipment in front of police, who
reportedly did not intervene.

Up to 3,000 protesters took part in the demonstration to demand a
referendum on President Robert Kocharian’s rule. Kocharian was
re-elected in March 2003 in a poll the opposition says was rigged.

Protesters have said they plan to hold another rally today, despite a
ban on the gathering announced by authorities.