Multi Stone workers resume protest, urge authorities to reopen factory

Employees of Multi Stone renewed their protest on Wednesday, calling on the authorities to reopen the company's factory after it was sealed by law enforcement.

The workers said they would continue demonstrating until a representative from the regional governor's office met with them to discuss their demands.

"Instead of coming to give us an answer, they're sending security forces," one employee told reporters. "There has to be a government. We're waiting to understand what we're supposed to do."

The protesters said their only demand was to be allowed to return to work, arguing that employees should not be caught up in legal or political matters involving the company's owners.

"We want our factory reopened so we can work," another employee said. "Let them resolve their own issues. We have nothing to do with them. Why should workers suffer because of politics?"

Workers said government inspections had taken place at the facility before without interrupting operations.

"There have always been inspections," one protester said. "Inspectors came, carried out their work and left. Workers weren't affected."

Multi Stone is among several companies owned by Prosperous Armenia Party leader Gagik Tsarukyan that have been sealed by Armenian law enforcement authorities.

The demonstrators said they would remain outside the facility until an official responded to their concerns. One employee said the person capable of answering their questions was currently inaccessible.

Another protester criticized the government's approach, saying, "Instead of developing the economy, they are dismantling it."