BAKU — The trial of the former military and political leadership of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), along with other Armenians, is nearing its conclusion in Baku. Testifying before a military court were former President Arayik Harutyunyan, former Foreign Minister David Babayan, and Major General David Manukyan. All of them rejected the charges brought against them.
“It is unequivocal and beyond any doubt that guilty verdicts will be handed down. All Armenians will be declared guilty on fabricated charges, and the harshest punishments will be imposed,” said human rights defender Siranush Sahakyan in an interview with Azatutyun. Sahakyan represents the interests of Armenian detainees held in Baku before international courts.
She added that, in particular, the former leaders are expected to receive life sentences; two former presidents over the age of 65 are likely to be sentenced to 20 years in prison, while other Armenians could face sentences ranging from 14 to 19 years, in line with the prosecution’s request.
