Newspaper: Pashinyan pushes for major political overhaul, including potential constitutional revisions

Ahead of Armenia's upcoming National Assembly elections, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has been progressively centralizing power, stripping regional governors of their authority.

According to Yerevan-based Hraparak newspaper, in recent moves, Pashinyan has reduced the vehicle fleet under regional governors' control, removed schools from their jurisdiction, and now transferred control of hospitals to the Ministry of Emergency Situations and the Ministry of Health, Caliber.Az reports.

There are growing speculations that he may soon abolish the position of regional governors altogether, claiming to have "eradicated the old feudal institution in Armenia."

Sources familiar with the situation suggest told the newspaper that these actions are part of a broader strategy to consolidate power and resources, likely in preparation for the upcoming elections. Schools, hospitals, and social services are considered significant administrative resources, and the move appears to reflect Pashinyan’s desire to personally oversee these key sectors rather than rely on the governors he appointed.

While regional governors previously held significant influence over their territories, it is now clear that their power has been weakened. Leaders of larger communities have grown in prominence, holding greater sway in local affairs. Internal regional matters are now largely managed by community heads, not governors, which is expected to impact voter support in favour of the ruling "Civil Contract" party.

In another article the newspaper claims that Pashinyan has addressed his party's internal meetings, presenting his “ideological messages.” He emphasized that Armenia needs a new ideology to match the changing times, and he is considering revisions not only to the Constitution but also to the country's founding agreement, national flag, and other symbols.

According to the newspaper, regarding questions on constitutional changes, Pashinyan addressed the issue of Ilham Aliyev's demands, stating that problematic requests from Azerbaijan would be resolved with the signing of a peace agreement. He hinted at his plans for a "new, real model of Armenia" and suggested that this could lay the groundwork for what he referred to as a "Fourth Republic."

Pashinyan elaborated on his vision during an interview with Public Radio, stating that introducing a new Constitution for a potential Fourth Republic is one of the ideas currently under consideration.

By Tamilla Hasanova