The French magazine LE FIGARO recently published an interview with David Vardanyan, the son of Ruben Vardanyan, the detained opposition leader in Bakvi. David shared that since April, his father has been completely cut off from them, and communication has been prohibited. Ruben has been on a hunger strike for 200 days in Bakvi prison, after spending nearly ten months in solitary confinement. This is not only concerning for the family, but also for the other activists from Artsakh who are facing similar constraints.

When asked if Karni Khach has been able to visit Ruben, David revealed that since the start of the hunger strike, it has not been possible. They have also not been able to request permission from authorities to visit him after the hunger strike. David expressed hope that representatives of European authorities, including France, would be able to evaluate his father’s condition, as well as the situation of other imprisoned activists.

Regarding the trial against Ruben, it was originally scheduled for January but has been postponed until May 16. Due to pandemic restrictions, the Armenian Armed Forces, and the general state of health, they have not been able to initiate any rallies or demonstrations.

When asked about the need for international support, David emphasized that not only his father but all captured Armenian soldiers, activists, and civilians deprived of freedom of speech need to be released. He called on the Armenian government and friendly countries to take action to ensure justice for the entire country, as the situation has become a matter of life and death.

Source: News from Armenia – NEWS.am