Armenian opposition leader says military parade used to mask government failures

Armenian opposition leader Armen Tatoyan criticized a military parade held on Thursday to mark the anniversary of the First Republic, saying the event was being used by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s government to distract from years of political and military failures.

In a video message released on May 28, Tatoyan, the prime ministerial candidate of the Wings of Unity party, said Armenians “must properly understand the real goals and context” of the military parade.

Tatoyan accused Pashinyan and his team of “repeatedly humiliating soldiers, their families, veterans and those who fought for the country,” while seeking to “conceal six years of failures behind our heroic soldiers.”

He accused the current administration of leading Armenia through “three major wars, three defeats and a third Armenian genocide” during its six years in power.

Tatoyan also said Armenian servicemen deserve leadership that respects both their sacrifices and those of their families.

“Our servicemen deserve good leadership that does not humiliate them in order to please our enemies,” he said.

Addressing members of the military, Tatoyan called June 7 “the day to liberate the country,” urging supporters to “take back the country” to ensure soldiers are led by officials who respect their service and sacrifice.