AntiFake editor: crackdown on free speech continues

Astghik Mattevosyan, editor of AntiFake.am , wrote on Facebook that “persecution against free speech and independent media in Armenia continues”, stating that her team is currently under direct pressure.

“Narek Samsonyan and Vazgen Saghatelyan have been in detention for 9 days. All of AntiFake.am ’s technical equipment has been confiscated for 9 days as well.

Thanks to our supporters, we’ve resumed work with newly acquired gear, but not at full capacity.

We are at the center of the ongoing crackdown against free speech and independent media. But this too shall pass — a compressed spring always explodes. Speaking out about these injustices brings that moment closer,” she wrote.

On November 13, masked officers from Armenia’s National Security Service raided the homes of podcast co-host Vazgen Saghatelyan and media figure Narek Samsonyan. They were arrested and then formally detained the next day, November 14.

Both face charges of hooliganism, based on a complaint filed by Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan.