Armenian opposition launches no-confidence motion against PM Pashinyan

Armenia's opposition has initiated a motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

The move was announced by Hovik Aghazaryan, leader of the United National Constitutional Party (UNCP), in a post on Facebook, Caliber.Az reports per Armenian media.

Aghazaryan stated that the party would reveal its candidate for the post of prime minister on May 20.

The UNCP has been a vocal critic of Pashinyan's leadership, particularly over his handling of national security and regional issues.

Pashinyan, who came to power in the wake of Armenia's 2018 Velvet Revolution, has faced mounting political pressure in recent years, especially following the outcomes of conflicts in the Karabakh region.

Earlier, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had ruled out the possibility of early parliamentary elections, stating the government is proceeding according to its regular schedule. “We are not planning to hold early parliamentary elections,” Pashinyan told reporters, dismissing recent speculation as a result of his direct communication with citizens.

The next parliamentary vote is expected in 2026. In the lead-up, the government is preparing a new constitution aimed at modernising the legal framework and consolidating democratic gains since the 2018 revolution. Justice Minister Grigor Minasyan said the draft is intended to reflect the country’s evolving governance standards.

The planned reforms have drawn regional attention. Azerbaijan has voiced concern over clauses in Armenia’s current constitution, that suggest territorial claims.

By Aghakazim Guliyev