Armenian cleric facing coup charges sues politicians for libel

Armenian Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan, who is facing serious criminal charges, has filed multiple defamation lawsuits—apparently in an attempt to secure financial compensation ahead of a possible lengthy prison sentence.

Galstanyan, a controversial cleric and leading figure in the opposition “Tavush for the Homeland” movement, is currently in custody on charges including plotting terrorist acts, inciting mass unrest, and attempting to seize power, Caliber.Az reports per Armenian media.

Despite his detention, Galstanyan has launched legal action against several Armenian politicians and public figures, accusing them of slander and insult.

According to Armenian judicial records cited by local media, the largest compensation claim – amounting to 9 million drams (approximately $23,000) – targets MP Vahagn Aleksanyan. Galstanyan is also seeking 3 million drams (around $7,500) each from Health Minister Anahit Avanesyan, Republic Party leader Aram Sargsyan, and fellow party members Ani Khachatryan and Hayk Saakyan.

Civil society representatives Harutyun Mkrtchyan and Styopa Safaryan have also been named in the lawsuits.

Observers suggest the lawsuits may be part of an effort by the embattled archbishop to raise funds for more comfortable conditions while serving his potential prison term.

By Aghakazim Guliyev