Life Sentences Sought for Some Karabakh Separatists

Azerbaijani prosecutors are seeking sentences for 15 Nagorno-Karabakh leaders, including life for Arayik Harutyunyan, the self-proclaimed President.

At a Baku trial on November 13, prosecutors requested life sentences for Harutyunyan, separatist ministers Levon Mnatsakanyan and Davit Manukyan, ex Foreign Minister Davit Babayan, and Parliament Speaker Davit Ishkhanyan. Due to their age (over 65), Arkadi Ghukasyan, Bako Sahakyan, and Madat Babayan may instead receive 20 years. Other defendants could get 16-19 years.

The trial resumes November 27, allowing final statements from lawyers and defendants. Some defendants pled partially guilty.

The trial for Harutyunyan began October 31. The accused face over 2,500 charges, including terrorism, genocide, and murder potentially carrying 20 years to life.

Billionaire Ruben Vardanyan, a former state minister, faces a separate trial and refused to testify.

The Karabakh conflict caused clashes between Azerbaijan and Armenia in the early 1990s, leading to the occupation of Karabakh and surrounding districts. Azerbaijan regained these territories in 2020 and 2023. The foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia provisionally agreed to a peace deal in Washington on August 8.

Most defendants were arrested following Azerbaijan's military operation in September 2023. They are charged with crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, genocide, and terrorism.

A peace talks are continuing, with Armenia raising concerns about Armenian prisoners held in Baku as 'a major obstacle' to lasting reconciliation.