“Hraparak” argues that political uncertainty in Armenia ahead of the upcoming presidential election only increases tensions in the country. “The government is waiting for the opposition to clarify its stance while trying to accelerate the process with all possible means in an attempt to split the opposition ranks. The opposition, for its part, is trying to show its attempts of achieving consolidation in order to keep the government in suspense. And this situational warfare may continue up until Election Day,” the paper concludes in its editorial.
“Zhamanak” comments on Prosperous Armenia Party (BHK) leader Gagik Tsarukian’s criticism of the government that he voiced on a visit to the second largest Armenian city of Gyumri on Wednesday. “Tsarukian spoke about the absence of jobs, low pensions and salaries, about people who have become richer while staying in politics. He said he was ready to do everything to win public trust, but he against ducked questions on his position in next year’s presidential election. But a figure who leads a party that declares him to be the most popular politician in Armenia, that speaks about enjoying the support of half a million voters and criticizes the government over the social and economic situation in the country must be the first to declare his bid to contest the election.”
Speaking to “Zhoghovurd” Armenian Revolutionary Federation (Dashnaktsutyun) lawmaker Artsvik Minasian underlines that the current political consultations between his party and the BHK that also involve some other opposition forces should proceed around ideas rather than individuals: “We are not electing a president to govern the country at will and do whatever he sees fit. This president should first and foremost embrace change and ensure reforms. Only after we agree on that, can we start discussing personalities.”
In an interview with “Hayots Ashkhar” deputy chairman of the ruling Republican Party of Armenia Razmik Zohrabian questions the agenda of the current political consultations among various opposition factions: “This process started only less than a week ago, some meetings have been held, but no one has yet spoken publicly about any results. The impression is that during these consultations the important thing is not the agenda, but the establishment of a common front against the government candidate, Serzh Sarkisian.”
(Aghasi Yenokian)