Opposition MP accuses Pashinyan of attempting to undermine electoral process

Armenian opposition lawmaker Ishkhan Saghatelyan has accused Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of attempting to destabilize the electoral process, warning of efforts to turn upcoming elections into a “chaotic street confrontation.”

Saghatelyan, an MP of the Hayastan faction and ARF Armenia leader, made the remarks during a presentation of his bloc's socio-economic platform on Wednesday.

“Observing the erratic behavior of the man at the helm of the government, particularly over the past two days with frequent public addresses, it is evident that he is losing control of governance,” Saghatelyan said. “He is now desperately trying to transform the political process into a disorderly, street-level confrontation.”

Saghatelyan argued that the formation of several major opposition alliances represents an effective framework to prevent the re-election of the current government. He emphasized that at least two significant blocs are participating in the elections, which he believes strengthens the opposition’s prospects.

Addressing recent polling data released by GALLUP International Association, which showed relatively low support for the Hayastan alliance, Saghatelyan dismissed the findings as inaccurate and distorted. He noted that similar forecasts by the organization in 2021 and subsequent periods had proven incorrect.

“I officially state that we conduct regular internal polling, approximately every ten days, to guide our strategy,” he said. “The latest survey, conducted ten days ago, bears no resemblance to the figures published by GALLUP.”

He further claimed that the opposition’s unified rating is “at least double” that of the ruling party.

Saghatelyan also warned that heightened tensions could lead to institutional interference, alleging that the government might exert undue influence over law enforcement bodies and electoral authorities, including the Central Electoral Commission.

“The rhetoric and conduct we are witnessing reflect deep-seated fears,” he added. “There is a risk of unlawful directives being issued to state institutions, as well as attempts to obstruct opposition activities and the functioning of electoral commissions.”