Armenia electoral commission clears Pashinyan over campaign rhetoric

Armenia’s Central Election Commission (CEC) has found no violations in complaints regarding remarks made by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan during the election campaign period, rejecting claims that his statements constituted threats against political opponents.

The complaint, filed by Aram Vardevanyan of the “Strong Armenia” bloc, requested an investigation into comments made by Pashinyan at pre-election rallies, where he used expressions including pledges to “crush”, “bring to their knees” and “oppress” opponents, Caliber.Az reports citing Armenian media.

The applicant argued that the remarks discredited political forces, fuelled public discord, and insulted the dignity of politicians.

However, the CEC concluded that while the ruling party leader’s language “do not fit within the context of restraint and political correctness”, they “do not give rise to a perception of psychological, physical or religious coercion” or any form of violence.

The decision comes as Armenia prepares for parliamentary elections scheduled for June 7, in which 16 parties and two coalitions are expected to participate.

The competing blocs include the “Armenia” and “Strong Armenia” coalitions, alongside multiple parties such as Civil Contract, Prosperous Armenia, Meritocratic Armenia, and others.

By Sabina Mammadli