Opposition MP slams proposed changes to Armenia's Electoral Code ahead of elections

Armenian opposition MP Gegham Manukyan has strongly criticized the ruling Civil Contract party’s push to amend the Electoral Code just two months before parliamentary elections, warning that the move undermines democratic norms.

Civil Contract MP Arusyak Julhakyan introduced the bill at a special parliament session on Tuesday. The proposal, to be debated under a 24-hour fast-track procedure, would bar electoral alliances from using personal names, state or municipal institutions or similar identifiers in their titles and prohibit offensive or defamatory language.

Manukyan, who represents the opposition Hayastan faction, accused the ruling team of rushing through “cornerstone changes” under the guise of technical corrections. “It’s no secret what the purpose of this amendment is,” he said, citing international practice that discourages altering electoral rules less than a year before a vote.

Julhakyan acknowledged Venice Commission recommendations against late-stage reforms but argued they apply only to fundamental principles.