Armenian Prosecutors Seek Criminal Proceedings Against Former President Robert Kocharyan

Armenia's Prosecutor General's Office has formally petitioned the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) to authorize criminal proceedings against former President Robert Kocharyan, leader of the opposition Hayastan (Armenia) Alliance, escalating tensions between the government and one of its most prominent political rivals.

The development comes just two days after Kocharyan was reportedly prevented from leaving Armenia through Zvartnots International Airport. His son, opposition lawmaker Levon Kocharyan, described the incident as "another act of illegality by the authorities."

Bagrat Mikoyan, head of Kocharyan's office, said the former president had not been questioned in connection with any criminal case and that his team had no prior knowledge of a new investigation.

According to Mikoyan, the prosecutor's request represents a continuation of the airport incident. He argued that both the Investigative Committee and the Anti-Corruption Committee had previously stated that no criminal proceedings involving Kocharyan were underway, raising questions about the legal basis for restricting his travel.

"The authorities first prevented him from leaving the country and now prosecutors have suddenly initiated a process to seek criminal prosecution," Mikoyan said, alleging political motives behind the move.

The former president's office said it was prepared for further developments, describing the latest actions as part of a broader campaign targeting the opposition.

The Prosecutor General's Office has not yet publicly detailed the allegations underlying its request to the CEC.

The case is likely to intensify political debate in Armenia following the country's recent parliamentary elections, as opposition groups continue to accuse the government of using state institutions to pressure political opponents.

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