Armenian Speaker hails peace efforts with Azerbaijan while criticizing former presidents

Armenian Parliament Speaker Alen Simonyan commented on domestic political dynamics and regional security during a press briefing, addressing former President Robert Kocharyan, opposition politics, and recent developments in the Middle East.

Simonyan suggested that Kocharyan should first focus on leading the parliamentary faction of the opposition bloc “Armenia.” However, he noted that the bloc is effectively controlled by the ARF Dashnaktsutyun, with other members acting as satellites.

“As for Kocharyan taking leadership, he shouldn’t even be talking about it,” Simonyan said.

The speaker expressed concerns about Kocharyan’s prospects in the upcoming parliamentary elections, warning that his opposition support could be overtaken by other parties.

“From what I understand, he has a problem with this,” Simonyan said, noting that many voters who supported the “Armenia” bloc in 2021 are unlikely to vote for Kocharyan again and may shift support to other opposition forces.

“Two or three opposition forces will be able to pass the electoral threshold. But the election campaign will show which ones. I think the list will include the Strong Armenia party and Gagik Tsarukyan’s party. These two will compete to become the leading opposition force,” he added.

Simonyan also criticized former President Serzh Sargsyan, calling him “rejected” and asserting that he will remain so in history.

Turning to regional developments, Simonyan commented on recent tensions in the Middle East:

“There is war in the north, war in the east, yet we have found ways for peace with Azerbaijan and are building peace.”

He also addressed internal church matters, criticizing Catholicos Garegin II of the Armenians:

“Ktrich Nersisyan, if he had dignity, would have resigned. He himself violated his charter,” Simonyan said.

By Vafa Guliyeva