Gevorg Safaryan kept in unacceptable conditions - Ombudsman (video)
Member of the Founding Parliament Movement Gevorg Safaryan is kept in ‘unacceptable prison conditions’ in the Nubarashen penitentiary institution, says Armenian Human Rights Defender (Ombudsman). “I am speaking about moisture, presence of insects and lack of natural light. The floor and the cells need to be disinfected,” Arman Tatoyan said. All cells and detention facilities in Armenia have the same problems and the state has not offered a proper solution yet. “Prisoners are being held in deplorable conditions in some jails. The conditions are unacceptable also for prison staff members. We need new prisons,” he added. The ombudsman wonders on what grounds Safaryan was transferred to a punishment cell. Poor sanitary conditions, inadequate lighting and ventilation, non-existent personal hygiene supplies and other problems are kept in the centre of attention of the Ombudsman’s Office. After keeping Safaryan in a punishment cell for 23 days the prison administration decided on Monday morning to transfer the civil activist to an ordinary cell where conditions are not life-threatening. Gevorg Safaryan was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for using violence against a government representative. He is also charged with abetting mass disorders in April of 2015.
