AGBU calls criminal proceedings against Catholicos and bishops  without legal basis and contrary to historical traditions

ArmInfo. The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) expresses deep concern over the persecution of the leadership of the Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC).

"The criminal prosecution of Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II,  along with six bishops, initiated by the Armenian government and  based on an internal church issue related to the administration of  the diocese, raises serious concerns in the context of religious  freedom and the rule of law," the union's statement reads.

AGBU respectfully calls for the termination of this criminal case,  which, in the organization's opinion, has no legal basis and is  contrary to historical traditions. As before, the AGBU stands ready  to play a constructive role in resolving the current situation,  should the need arise.

"The Constitution of Armenia and national legislation recognize the  Armenian Apostolic Holy Church as a national church, guarantee its  right to self-government, and protect religious freedom. Therefore,  issues concerning the eligibility of bishops for ecclesiastical  office must be regulated exclusively within the framework of canon  law and the procedures established by the Church," the Union noted.

The AGBU stated that it respects the democratically elected  government of Armenia, its political powers, as well as the  Constitution and laws of the Republic of Armenia. At the same time,  the Organization maintains unwavering respect for the Armenian Church  and its leadership, elected in accordance with canon law and  ecclesiastical order, and considers the Church's continued role in  preserving Armenian identity throughout the world vital.

Today, at 4:00 PM, the first hearing in the criminal case against the  Catholicos of All Armenians will take place in the Armavir Regional  Court of General Jurisdiction, presided over by Judge Hakob Manukyan.

As a reminder, since May 2025, the Armenian authorities have been  actively pursuing an anti-church policy and are seeking the  resignation of Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II, who is elected  to this position for life. This campaign has targeted both clergy and  citizens who support the Church. In February of this year, the  Armenian Prosecutor's Office opened a criminal case against  Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II, and he is banned from leaving  the country. The case is based on charges of obstructing the  execution of a judicial decision related to the defrocking of Arman  Saroyan. Khachatur Galstyan has been appointed prosecutor in the  criminal case. Several other high-ranking clergy are also involved in  the case.