Armenian opposition candidate fired over political views

Hayastan Hakobyan, a candidate of the opposition Strong Armenia alliance in the June 7 parliamentary elections, says she has been dismissed from her post at Armavir Regional State College because of her political views.

Hakobyan, who spent more than three decades at the college as an Armenian language and literature lecturer and coordinator of student programs, announced her removal in a statement on Monday. She said the decision was made “on the basis of mistrust” tied to her political stance.

“I have devoted myself wholeheartedly to my students and to raising worthy children for the homeland,” Hakobyan wrote, noting she had received commendations from the Ministry of Education and school directors during her career. She added that the support of her students, parents and colleagues was “the most important recognition.”

Calling her candidacy with the Strong Armenia alliance a “great honor,” Hakobyan said the interests of the country remain her priority.