On the day of trial, a number of volunteers went from Society Without Violence to attend the trial of Mariam Gevorgyan in Artashat. Besides SWV, there were representatives from the Coalition to Stop Violence against Women to show Mariam their support alongside her relatives and to monitor the trial. The trial is closed, why none of her family may attend the trial. It also means that Mariam do not have the right to retell anything from the trial. For that reason, Mariam's family does not believe it is a fair trial;
- This trial must be bribed, or why would it otherwise be closed? They said, while sitting outside the court-house in the heat during the entire trial to show their support.
As the supporters of Mariam were demonstrating outside the court-house, a number of people passed by. Almost every one showed curiosity;
reading the posters and asking questions. It is clear that some people are already involved in the case, some of them giving encouraging words. Hopefully the presence of NGO’s showing support can raise an opinion amongst even more.
The relatives of the husband and mother in law were too having posters and showing pictures of Mariam; claiming that she was ill when marrying David Ziroyan, hence the bruises on her face. They also claim that it is all about the money; saying that Mariam will receive 17 million AMD if she wins.
The verdict will not yet be revealed, more sections of the trial are to come. If it turns out to be against Mariams favour her family will appeal to the higher court.
- We will fight till the end! Mariam’s relatives said.
The next trial will take place in Artashat on October 4. Please join us in the fight for a fair trial for Mariam Gevorgyan!
P.S. The Press Conference on September 28 is cancelled because of some circumstances.
Annika Andersson
SWV Intern