Artsakh's constitution to undergo changes to ensure presidential continuity

Artsakh’s constitution is set to undergo amendments to ensure the continuity of the presidency as the incumbent president’s term ends on May 21, Justice faction MP Metakse Hakobyan revealed.

Speaking to Panorama.am on Wednesday, she explained the move is aimed at safeguarding state institutions amid political instability.

“We've been working on it for quite some time,” Hakobyan said. "There are multiple options on the table given the situation created by the current Armenian authorities. The changes are necessary to keep the Artsakh government institutions functioning in Armenia."

She stressed the amendments are designed to address scenarios where the president may be unable to continue in office. "Even if the current president steps down for health or personal reasons, we need legal mechanisms in place to ensure the state institutions don't stop functioning."

The Artsakh parliament has already passed the draft amendments in the first reading. The Supreme Court and the parliamentary legal committee have both given positive opinions. However, the second reading, originally scheduled for April 4, was delayed due to lack of quorum, which Hakobyan attributed to some MPs’ "fear, irresponsibility or lack of engagement".

"We’re not considering other options yet. Everything is being done to make sure the session takes place. Time is running out and the process can’t be delayed much longer," the MP added.