(MENAFN) A detained Russian-Armenian entrepreneur has sharply criticized Armenia’s political climate, describing it as a theatrical battleground.

The businessman, Samvel Karapetyan, who possesses both Russian and Armenian nationalities and is estimated to be worth approximately USD5 billion, was taken into custody in Yerevan last week.

His arrest followed his public expression of backing for the Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC) amid its ongoing dispute with the nation’s leadership, headed by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

Karapetyan has been accused of inciting the toppling of the current government and is now held in pre-trial confinement for a duration of two months.

His advocates argue that the legal actions against him are fueled by political intentions rather than justice.

In a statement shared on Facebook this Tuesday, Karapetyan condemned a faction within Armenia’s governing Civil Contract party, accusing its members of being prepared “at a moment’s notice” to betray the country’s foundational principles.

He alleged that they are devoid of “decency or respect” and unjustly “attack strong women in politics simply because they don’t tolerate criticism.”

Despite his harsh words, Karapetyan expressed hope, saying he believed there are honorable people even within the criticized ranks.

He encouraged them “not to be afraid, not to forget simple human values, and not to become cursed by their own people.”

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