The Strong Armenia party has issued a statement concerning the arrests carried out in Stepanavan, saying they reflect “the same anti-democratic practices for which European institutions criticized Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s government” following the nationwide elections in June.
“Today, we are witnessing yet another instance of electoral process violations by Pashinyan’s government.
“Just days before the local government elections in Stepanavan, Arsen Gevorgyan, Strong Armenia’s candidate for mayor of Stepanavan, and 14 supporters have been detained.
“Video recordings made using hidden cameras have been used, and edited footage has been circulated, driven by political motives and considerations of expediency.
“This is not democracy. It is a dangerous practice of abusing the law and state institutions to retain power at any cost, where accusations are made before facts are established and political retaliation is presented as justice.
“We are witnessing the same anti-democratic practices for which European institutions criticized Pashinyan’s government following the nationwide elections in June.
“According to the latest report by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), electoral violations were recorded at nearly half of polling stations. Pashinyan speaks of democratic elections, yet his actions are characteristic of a dictator. These arrests are not only anti-democratic but also run counter to the interests of Stepanavan residents who want change.
“Pashinyan wants to establish complete control over Armenia so that he can fulfill all of Aliyev’s demands and make further concessions. One such concession is the version of the TRIPP project that is disadvantageous to Armenia and serves Azerbaijan’s interests rather than Armenia’s. Such concessions will not bring peace but will only lead to further aggression by Azerbaijan.
“Change will come, and it is close, despite Pashinyan’s actions.
“We urge Stepanavan voters not to be afraid and to take part in the vote. Your ballot is secret, and it is through your participation that change can begin in Stepanavan,” the statement said.
