Opposition activist keeps his spirits high

Several journalists and editors held today a protest on Republican Square in support of jailed editor-in-chief of the Haykakan Zhamanak newspaper, Nikol Pashinyan.

With posters featuring Pashinyans image, they formed a circle, chanting "NIkol" and "Freedom".

Unlike the previous times, only two policemen were present at today's demonstration.

Pashinyan's wife, Anna Hakobyan, told journalists that her husband has been illegally placed in a punishment cell, where he currently is. She said the protest aimed at ensuring Nikol's security and getting him released.

The opposition activist is not absolutely dispirited following the recent attack in prison.

"Although there were bruises on his body, he was quite all right and kept his spirits high," Hakobyan said, adding that Nikol will be released from the punishment cell on December 2.

Hayk Gevorgyan, currently in charge for the publication of Haykakan Zhamanak daily, said all pressures against Pashinyan are aimed at suspending activities as a journalist.

"Nikol will not keep silent," he said.

The protesters headed towards the Prosecutor General's Office to join the crowd that had gathered there to voice support for the Armenian political prisoners.

Several policemen had gathered around the building to protect the area.