Epress.am News from Armenia
A number of news outlets in Armenia begun a campaign Monday asking for the release of their colleague Haykakan Jamanak (“Armenian Times”) chief editor, imprisoned opposition journalist Nikol Pashinyan. Those news outlets that have agreed to participate in the campaign have decided to begin by sending a letter each in turn to Pashinyan in Artik penitentiary with the expectation of a response — this way, those working in the press will ensure that Pashinyan’s right to correspondence is not violated (a concern that has been voiced on numerous occasions in the past).
On Monday, local daily Hraparak sent the first letter. On Tuesday, a letter was sent by another local daily, Chorrord Inqnishkhanutyun (“Fourth Self-Authority”), which asked Pashinyan 5 questions. They are as follows:
1. If you were released right now, what would be your first move?
2. What are the achievements and shortcomings of the Armenian National Congress [HAK] led by first president of the Republic of Armenia Levon Ter-Petrossian? In general, how would you assess HAK’s recent activities?
3. In order to begin political dialogue, HAK presented three demands to the authorities: to release political prisoners, to display will in uncovering [the events of] March 1 [2008], and to ensure the right to hold guaranteed rallies in Liberty Square. What do you think, will [Armenian President] Serzh Sargsyan will meet HAK’s demands, and after that, is political dialogue really possible?
4. Early or regular elections? According to you, which is more likely?
5. From the rally platform [i.e. if given the mic at a rally] at this time, what call would you make to struggling RA citizens and to those who have ceased to believe in the victory of the revolution?