Pashinyan ally warns diaspora voters of arrest over election bribes

Armenian Parliament Speaker, Ruben Rubinyan, a senior ally of Nikol Pashinyan, has reiterated allegations that opposition figures are attempting to bribe voters ahead of upcoming elections, warning of immediate arrests for those who accept such payments.

In a video address cited by Armenian media and reported by Caliber.Az, Rubinyan issued a direct warning to Armenian citizens living abroad.

“Dear Armenians living abroad, if you have been offered an election bribe there and you accepted it, you should know that when you arrive at Zvartnots International Airport, you will be immediately arrested. Because accepting an election bribe is a crime, and our relevant special services are monitoring the situation not only in Armenia but also beyond its borders,” he said.

Rubinyan also alleged that bribery efforts were being conducted through what he described as a network linked to an individual he called a “KGB agent.”

“Also, dear compatriots who have received an election bribe through a KGB agent — the so-called Archbishop Yezras or his network — you should also know that KGB agent Yezras (the brother of Garegin II, — ed.) is under close attention of our services, and likewise, if you take money or any bribe from his network, know this: as soon as you arrive at Zvartnots International Airport, you will be arrested!” he stated.

At the same time, the vice speaker welcomed citizens who intend to participate in the electoral process without engaging in illegal activities.

“Dear other compatriots who, without taking an election bribe, simply want to come to Armenia and vote: this is very welcome, and we are glad that you want to come and fulfil your civic duty!” Rubinyan added.

By Tamilla Hasanova