Armenia's Anti-Corruption Committee warns against vote-buying ahead of parliamentary elections

Armenia’s Anti-Corruption Committee on Friday warned political actors against vote-buying and illegal charity activities following the official launch of the election period for the country’s next parliamentary vote.

The committee said a presidential decree scheduling regular National Assembly elections entered into force on February 7.

Under Article 221 of Armenia’s Criminal Code, from the moment an election is called until official results are certified, candidates, political parties or alliances, their representatives, or affiliated individuals are prohibited from offering or promising money, goods, services or benefits to voters, either directly or indirectly, including under the guise of charitable activity. Conducting campaign activities alongside charity is also banned and carries criminal liability.

The Anti-Corruption Committee said it is exercising its full legal authority to monitor and oversee the electoral process, urging all participants to refrain from illegal actions related to prohibited charity. It warned any violations will be met with “proportionate and strict legal response”.