Georgian Interior Ministry bans French lawyer from defending Chakhalyan

March 3, 2009 - 20:58 AMT
PanARMENIAN.Net - The Georgian Ministry of Interior has rejected French lawyer Patrick Arapian's petition to defend Javakhk political activist Vahagn Chakhalyan, Yerkir Union told PanARMENIAN.Net



The Ministry's letter addressed to Chakhalyan's mother, Gayane Chakhalyan, does not mention the reasons for denial. Although all essential documents were provided, the Ministry rejected appointment of Arapian as defender.



"The Georgian authorities once again proved that they can use any illegal means to convict Vahagn Chakhalyan," Yerkir Union said in its statement.



The Union calls on the international community to urge the Georgian authorities to stop the illegal court procedure against Chakhalyan.



At the night of July 20, 2008 Georgian special forces and the local police burst into the house of United Javakhk Leader Vahagn Chakhalyan, arrested him and his family members.



Only 3 hearings have been held since Chakhalyan's arrest, where the observers, including those from Georgian Ombudsman's office, registered gross violations.



On Dec. 3 new charges were laid against Chakhalyan and the trial was postponed for an indefinite period.
 Top stories
Azerbaijan admits death of 192 soldiers in Karabakh offensiveAzerbaijan admits death of 192 soldiers in Karabakh offensive
Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive.
Azerbaijan increasing defense spending for 2023 by $650 millionAzerbaijan increasing defense spending for 2023 by $650 million
In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million).
Moscow could recognize those who speak Russian as Moscow could recognize those who speak Russian as "compatriots"
The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot".
Magnitude 5.6 quake causes damages in IranMagnitude 5.6 quake causes damages in Iran
The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads.
Partner news
 Articles
Compassion is key, no matter what

An Italian photojournalist’s journey through the pandemic

 Most popular in the section
Global toll of mysterious hepatitis in children rises to 650 cases
Monkeypox does not pose a Covid-style risk, top health execs say
Sinjar becomes latest flashpoint for Iran-Turkey tensions in Iraq
Turkey-Syria earthquake death toll passes 15,000
Home
All news
Overview: Armenia and world
Archive for March 3, 2009
Other news in this section
  Related sections
World
 Topic
 Latest news
Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year.
Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan.
Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan.
Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan.
---