Parliament speaker rules out impunity in new Armenia through connections

Speaker of the Armenian National Assembly Ararat Mirzoyan on Monday gave his strong assurances that personal ties can no way influence investigation process in new Armenia as he was asked to comment on the corruption charges brought against Davit Sanasaryan, the head of the State Oversight Service.

“Davit Sanasaryan is my friend, but it does not matter: being someone’s friend, relative or family member cannot have any impact on the investigation process and the court ruling in new Armenia,” the speaker said.

Asked how indicting Sanasaryan could possibly affect the rating of the velvet revolution, he said: “I would refrain from making any comments taking into account the ongoing investigation. In any case, the revolution rating will only grow,” he said.

Armenia’s National Security Service (NSS) brought corruption charges against Sanasaryan on Thursday as part of the criminal case launched on February 25, involving two senior officers of the Oversight Service suspected in misconduct.

The NSS said they colluded with a company sponsored by them in order to ensure its victory in a state procurement of equipment for three medical facilities.

Sanasaryan, who has been barred from leaving the country, denies any wrongdoing.