Vanetsyan: Removal of current government possible through elections

Homeland Party leader Artur Vanetsyan believes that the ruling regime in Armenia can be replaced through elections, highlighting the opposition victory in recent local elections.

“I believe it is possible to remove the current government through elections, something clearly demonstrated by the recent local elections, particularly in Parakar and Gyumri,” he told reporters at the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial on Thursday.

Vanetsyan, a former NSS head, recalled that the opposition had already achieved victories in previous elections in many communities.

When asked whether he plans to take steps to remove Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan from power, Vanetsyan claimed that such efforts have been underway since September 2019.

"The most important question is why it hasn't succeeded yet. It’s not just a question I must ask myself, but one that thousands of citizens committed to this cause are also asking," he said. "One of the key reasons is that Pashinyan and his administration go to any lengths to stay in power, resorting to unlawful actions, provocations, arrests and force. To them, power is a guarantee of their personal security. More importantly, they enjoy being in power rather than serving the people."

Vanetsyan added that losing power would be like "death" for the current leadership. "They came into power with nothing and have since gained wealth, influence and security entourages."

"But this should not discourage us. Absolutely not. We will continue to fight, but let's not set specific timelines," he emphasized.

Vanetsyan reiterated that while his party is preparing for the 2026 parliamentary elections, it does not exclude other tools of political struggle, including street protests and impeachment.