Armenian mayor faces scrutiny over pre-election aid distribution

The mayor of Talin, who also serves as the territorial council chairman of the ruling Civil Contract party, has come under scrutiny following reports that financial assistance was distributed to residents weeks before the June parliamentary elections elections, prompting allegations of misuse of administrative resources and potential vote buying.

Pastinfo reports that Mayor Tavros Sapeyan signed Decision No. 793-A on April 27 authorizing the provision of social assistance. Under the decision, 370,000 drams (approximately $950) were transferred to Vardanyants LLC, while an additional 30,000 drams (around $75) were allocated to sole proprietor Layert Khachatryan reportedly for the purchase of food for beneficiaries.

The report further states that nine individuals received direct financial aid ranging from 30,000 to 100,000 drams. Additional disbursements covered utility expenses, including electricity and water bills, as well as 54,160 drams for medication.

Armenian law imposes restrictions on charitable activities during the pre-election period.