“Media Advocate” Initiative: Artsakh Republic presidential candidate Masis Mayilyan and his supporters hindered media activity

On March 6, during the Askeran meeting with the Artsakh Republic presidential candidate Masis Mayilyan, and the leader of the “United Homeland” Party Samvel Babayan, an incident occurred which may cast a shadow over the free and democratic nature of the presidential election campaign currently being conducted in Artsakh. Presidential candidate Masis Mayilyan and his relative Hovik Mayilyan have hindered the work of the Zhoghovurd daily’s team of journalists.

“Media Advocate” Initiative urges Artsakh presidential candidate Masis Mayilyan to refrain from hindering the work of the media and improper behavior towards the journalists. At the same time, we urge the Artsakh Republic authorities to ensure the free and unimpeded activity of the media during the election campaign as well as the transparency of the campaign.