Media: Opposition mayor of Armenia's Gyumri in life-threatening condition behind bars

Vardan Ghukasyan, the opposition mayor of Gyumri, is reportedly in critical condition while detained at the “Yerevan–Kentron” penitentiary.

His lawyer, Zarui Postandzhyan, told Armenian media that she is deeply concerned for his safety, as per Caliber.Az.

“He is in a severe and life-threatening state,” Postandzhyan said. “I am extremely worried about his health, life, and physical security. I have also learned that additional inmates have been placed in his cell.”

Since November 8, authorities have reportedly refused to allow independent doctors to examine Ghukasyan, raising serious concerns about the adequacy of his medical care.

Ghukasyan’s arrest is part of a broader anti-corruption crackdown. On October 20, the Anti-Corruption Committee (ACC) detained Ghukasyan along with seven city officials, accusing them of soliciting a 4 million dram ($10,000) bribe to legalise an unauthorised 1,500-square-meter building in Gyumri. Officials also alleged that documents were falsified to prevent the building’s demolition.

The ACC released audio recordings purportedly capturing discussions of the scheme, though Ghukasyan’s defence maintains the recordings are misleading and do not directly implicate him.

The arrests triggered protests in Gyumri, during which authorities detained 41 people for “mass riots” and “obstructing justice.” Twenty-four of those arrested, including human rights activist Ruben Mkhitaryan, were remanded in custody.

Postandzhyan warned that without access to an independent medical evaluation, Ghukasyan’s life could be at serious risk, and she called on authorities to ensure his safety.

By Tamilla Hasanova