Ombudsperson on Parakar case: Presumption of innocence extremely  important

ArmInfo.It is crucial that state bodies, including law enforcement, and all relevant  parties, including the defense, to consider the crucial importance of  the presumption of innocence in such situations, as well as  compliance with various procedural principles related to the case.  Armenian Ombudsman Anahit Manasyan commented on the murder case of  Volodya Grigoryan, head of the Parakar communitym during a briefing  on October 2. Narek Ohanyan is the prime suspect in this case.

Regarding the protection of individuals' rights in criminal  proceedings, she noted that the Ombudsman's Office is seeking  clarification from authorized state bodies. "Activities are still  ongoing regarding this case, and public statements are only now being  made," Manasyan said. In this regard, the Human Rights Defender noted  that, should she exercise the relevant authority, she would make a  public comment on the matter. However, for now, she declined to  discuss any violations, as potential problems would still need to be  identified and made public during the process.  Manasyan also added  that it is important to take the utmost care in avoiding unnecessary  statements and improve  the structure public communications.