Shirak Diocese Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan will remain in custody, following a decision by the Court of Appeals to reject the defense's appeal.
Lawyer Yerem Sargsyan stated that they have not yet reviewed the written court decision to understand the grounds for the denial, but asserted that “the rejection is unfounded,” according to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
During the appeal hearing, the Investigative Committee noted that the preliminary investigation of the case had been completed. The defense included this point in their appeal, emphasizing that under such circumstances, the Archbishop could no longer hinder the investigation—previously a reason cited by the prosecution for his detention.
Yerem Sargsyan added that they are likely to appeal the decision to the Court of Cassation, and, if necessary, may also take the case to the European Court of Human Rights.
Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan, who has led the Shirak Diocese for 25 years, faces charges for inciting the seizure of power. The criminal case is based on an interview he gave a year ago, in which he spoke about the necessity of a coup.
