ARMENIA: PROSECUTORS MAY REWORK COUP CHARGES AGAINST TER-PETROSIAN SUPPORTERS
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Posted March 24, 2009
Armenian prosecutors may reconsider coup charges against seven jailed
supporters of ex-President Levon Ter-Petrosian, Armenian news sources
reported on March 24.
The controversial trial of the seven accused men, marred by exchanges
between the judge and defendants, was yet again adjourned March 23;
this time, until April 2, at the request of the prosecution.
Prosecutor Koryun Piloian said that the prosecution needs time to
bring its charges into compliance with recent amendments to
Armenia’s criminal code. The amendments, which relate to the
organization of public disorders and usurpation of power, have come
under criticism from the Venice Commission, the Council of Europe’s
constitutional law advisory body.
Defense attorneys for the seven contended during the March 23 hearing
that the amendments meant that the government’s charges are no
longer relevant, and must be dropped.