In the lists of the Communist Party there were two Armenians – Armen Beniaminov and Semyen Baghdasarov. The latter evidently will have a mandate. It seems that from the “National-Patriotic Union Motherland” that has got 9%, two Armenians will be in Duma. Despite the nationalistic slogans of the party, it is evident that its leaders are very attentive to the Armenian community. The MP Ashot Eghiazaryan, member of the Liberal-Democratic party headed by Vladimir Zhirinovsky, is reelected. It should be noted that the leaders of the Armenian community do not connect their hopes with him as during the last 8 years of activity Mr. Eghiazaryan has not demonstrated any concern about the problems of Armenia and the Armenians. Besdies, the businessman Mihran Chagaryan has also passed through the central list of the Liberal-Democratic Party. We do not know much about him. Evidently, Stepan Shorshorov, member of the Central Political Council of the “United Russia” governing party will also renew his mandate. Unfortunately, Mr. Shorshorov also has not been enough active in supporting the initiatives proposed by the Union of Armenians of Russia. It’s a pity that the “Party of Renaissance of Russia – Russian Party of Life” electoral block did not pass the 5% barrier, as Yerevan journalist Levon Chakhmachyan was included in its list.
As far as the majority elections are concerned, the victory of the member of board of the Union of Armenians of Russia, Vice-Speaker of State Duma Arthur Chilingarov was absolutely predictable. He was included also in the lists of the “United Russia” party but preferred to be independent. We shall note that besides the Armenians themselves, there are also several political figures in the State Duma that are known for their pro-Armenian position. Among them – the head of the Institute of CIS countries, political scientist Constantin Zatulin.
Half a year ago, while in Yerevan, the President of Union of Armenians of Russia, head of the World Armenian Organization Ara Abrahamyan said that there is an objective to have at least 5 representatives of the Armenian community. It is evident that the Union of Armenians has managed to achieve its objective and get trustful partners in the Parliament.
