Vazgen Manukyan calls for genuine coalition governance ahead of elections

Veteran opposition figure Vazgen Manukyan, chairman of the National Democratic Union (NDU), said Armenia could see its first genuine coalition government if opposition forces work effectively in the upcoming elections.

Speaking at an expanded session of the NDU board on Wednesday, Manukyan argued that while most voters oppose the current administration, many remain unconvinced by opposition candidates for prime minister — a dynamic that risks voter abstention and could benefit the ruling party.

He stressed that a coalition victory would mark a historic shift, obliging multiple parties to share responsibility for Armenia’s future. Unlike previous nominal coalitions, Manukyan said this arrangement would be binding, with the prime minister losing a parliamentary majority if any partner withdrew. He cited Germany’s coalition agreements as a model, noting their detailed division of responsibilities and mechanisms for mutual oversight.

The NDU also rejected government plans to cede enclaves to Azerbaijan, warning such concessions would undermine national interests and potentially trigger renewed conflict. On foreign policy, members cautioned against abrupt geopolitical realignments, urging balanced relations with Russia, the EU, the U.S., Iran, China, and others.

Manukyan concluded that a unified opposition coalition could secure public trust, safeguard Armenia’s security and foster economic growth, while ensuring that critical decisions no longer hinge on a single leader or party.