Tensions erupt in Armenian parliament

Tensions flared in the Armenian parliament following a speech by independent MP Hovik Aghazaryan, who formerly represented the ruling Civil Contract party. The incident took place at a debate on a bill seeking the nationalization of the Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA) on Thursday.

In his address, Aghazaryan criticized the government's policies and warned of attempts to ramp up anti-Russian sentiments in Armenia. He voiced concerns about the management of national infrastructure by foreign companies, specifically referencing public dissatisfaction with the French water utility Veolia Djur, which operates in Armenia under a trust management agreement. Aghazaryan argued that eliminating such arrangements could precipitate a water crisis in the country.

“These actions aim to intensify anti-Russian sentiments in order to pivot toward the West,” Aghazaryan claimed. “But the West begins with Turkey. I urge Russia not to fall for our provocations.”

His remarks provoked an angry reaction from Civil Contract MP Arman Yeghoyan, who repeatedly shouted, “Shame, shame, shame!” The confrontation escalated when Aghazaryan threw a bottle toward members of the ruling party.

Deputy parliament speaker Hakob Arshakyan ordered Aghazaryan to leave the sessions hall and barred him from further participation in the session. Yeghoyan received a formal warning and was urged to remain calm.

Later, Yeghoyan took the parliament floor and accused Aghazaryan of slandering the Armenian government. “He is defaming Armenia with false accusations. This is a disgrace and a crime against the country. They've left the dirtiest job to Aghazaryan,” he announced.