Yerevan, June 6 – The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) of Armenia has confirmed that the ‘Strong Armenia’ party will remain in the election race. This decision came after the CEC reviewed a motion to annul the party’s registration, ultimately concluding that all pre-election expenses were conducted in accordance with the law.
CEC Decision: ‘Strong Armenia’ Stays in the Race
The CEC announced its decision at 00:30 on June 6, 2026, stating that there was no basis to remove the ‘Strong Armenia’ party from the electoral process. This ruling follows a period of intense political debate and legal challenges regarding the party’s eligibility.
According to CEC President, the motion to annul the registration of ‘Strong Armenia’ was rejected due to a lack of legal grounds and supporting evidence. “There is neither a demand nor a basis; the motion should be rejected as quickly as possible,” stated Vardevanyan, a representative involved in the proceedings.
Allegations and Counter-Allegations
The decision by the CEC comes amidst a series of political events and accusations. Anna Vardapetyan had submitted an application to the CEC to strip six candidates from the ‘Strong Armenia’ party of their immunity. This move was part of a broader attempt to challenge the party’s participation in the elections.
Earlier, on June 5, 2026, at 17:46, the “Republic” party also filed an application with the CEC, demanding a review of the “Strong Armenia” party’s eligibility to participate in the elections. These actions highlight the contentious political climate surrounding the upcoming elections.
Political Landscape and Public Gatherings
The political scene in Yerevan has been marked by numerous rallies and public gatherings. On June 5, 2026, at 22:19, 16,000 people attended a rally organized by the Civil Contract (CC) party at 20:30. This event was met with accusations of administrative resource abuse, with reports of people being transported by buses from Ashtarak municipality to Yerevan to participate in the CC rally.
Opposition figures have voiced strong opinions. Artur Khachikyan stated on June 5, 2026, at 22:29, “Today, Meghri was snatched from our hands, and now they are trying to convince us through propaganda that it is not so; they were convincing us that Karabakh was not surrendered.” Pashinyan, on the other hand, has made strong statements regarding judicial reform, threatening judges and the judicial system.
Reactions and Future Implications
The decision to keep ‘Strong Armenia’ in the race has drawn mixed reactions. Political analyst, on June 5, 2026, at 19:46, commented that if any of the main opposition participants are removed from the elections, “we will face a revolution, not a velvet one.” This underscores the high stakes involved in the current political climate.
The Union of Journalists of Armenia condemned the suspension of “Armat-Media’s” activities on June 5, 2026, at 22:13, raising concerns about media freedom during the election period.
The CEC’s ruling is a significant development in the lead-up to the elections, potentially shaping the outcome and future political landscape of Armenia. The court could consider the lawsuit to invalidate the party’s registration until June 6, 24:00. The final decision on whether “Strong Armenia” can participate in the elections is expected by tomorrow.
The situation remains dynamic, with various political forces vying for influence and power. The public continues to follow these developments closely, as the country prepares for crucial elections.
