October 4, 2025

On October 3, the Armenian court once again proved itself a tool of Nikol Pashinyan’s regime, handing down a cowardly verdict that sentenced Archbishop Mikayel Ajapahyan to two years in prison. This is nothing less than political retaliation.

The regime, determined to silence a prominent critic, staged a disgraceful show trial. Three months ago, Archbishop Ajapahyan was arrested on the absurd charge of a “call to coup”, his only “crime” being the public statement that Pashinyan’s regime must change. This ruling is a direct assault on democracy, free speech, and religious freedom. It is also a clear attempt to frighten the general public ahead of upcoming elections.

This case is not just political persecution. It is part of a calculated campaign to intimidate the clergy of the Armenian Apostolic Church and undermine the institution itself. We have not witnessed such a brazen abuse of judicial power against a clergyman since the darkest days of Stalin.

The Armenian Scandinavian Union condemns this despotic act in the strongest terms. We stand with the Armenian Apostolic Church, its faithful, and its courageous clergy. We demand the immediate release of Archbishop Ajapahyan and all political prisoners in Armenia.