Armenian official says opposition failed to mobilise supporters in Etchmiadzin

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s Deputy Chief of Staff  Taron Chakhoyan has said the opposition failed to mobilise significant public support during a gathering in Etchmiadzin on December 18.

Speaking during a livestream on Facebook, Chakhoyan stated that despite what he described as extensive efforts, opposition forces were able to gather only about 2,200 people in the courtyard of the Holy See of Etchmiadzin. He questioned the absence of 14,000 volunteers claimed by the opposition’s “Our Way” movement, Caliber.Az reports. 

The remarks came after a call issued on December 17 by 10 bishops who support Prime Minister Pashinyan in his dispute with the Armenian Apostolic Church. In their statement, the bishops urged citizens to gather in Etchmiadzin at 5 p.m. local time on December 18 to demand the resignation of Catholicos Garegin II.

Opposition supporters also assembled at the site, with the stated aim of preventing protesters from holding demonstrations against the Catholicos.

By Sabina Mammadli