The appeals hearing in the criminal case of Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan began with the defense submitting a motion to recuse Judge Edgar Manasyan, citing his personal friendship with public prosecutor Vahan Harutyunyan. Defense lawyer Ara Zohrabyan argued that such a relationship casts doubt on the judge’s impartiality.
The court rejected the motion. As a result, the appeal will proceed with Judges Vache Margaryan, Narine Hovakimyan, and presiding Judge Edgar Manasyan, according to Sputnik Armenia.
Before the motion was filed, Judge Manasyan acknowledged knowing Prosecutor Harutyunyan and said they had worked together and attended personal events in each other’s lives. “We have attended each other’s gatherings, but the court assures that this has no impact on its impartiality,” Manasyan stated.
Zohrabyan noted the defense also has reservations about Judge Vache Margaryan but chose not to file a separate motion, as approving the president judge’s recusal would have resulted in the full replacement of the judicial panel.
Archbishop Mikael attended the session after being transferred from a medical facility. He confirmed his health allows him to participate and he sees no obstacle to being present.
Archbishop Mikael Ajapahyan faces charges for publicly calling for the overthrow of the constitutional order, seizure of power, or violation of territorial integrity. He was arrested on June 28, 2025.
On October 3, 2025, Judge Armine Meliksetyan of the court of first instance found him guilty and sentenced him to two years in prison. His defense filed an appeal on November 13 seeking acquittal. The hearing, initially scheduled for December 15, was postponed, again on January 13, 2026, due to health concerns.
