Armenia: Prosecutors May Rework Coup Charges against Ter-Petrosian Supporters

Armenian prosecutors may reconsider coup charges against seven jailed supporters of ex-President Levon Ter-Petrosian, Armenian news sources reported on March 24.

The controversial trial of the seven accused men, marred by exchanges between the judge and defendants, was yet again adjourned March 23; this time, until April 2, at the request of the prosecution.

Prosecutor Koryun Piloian said that the prosecution needs time to bring its charges into compliance with recent amendments to Armenia's criminal code. The amendments, which relate to the organization of public disorders and usurpation of power, have come under criticism from the Venice Commission, the Council of Europe's constitutional law advisory body.

Defense attorneys for the seven contended during the March 23 hearing that the amendments meant that the government's charges are no longer relevant, and must be dropped.