Gyumri, Shirak Province, Armenia – Local political figures are voicing strong concerns over the possibility of snap elections being held in Gyumri under the guise of community enlargement. Karen Simonyan, head of the “Mother Armenia” faction in Gyumri, stated in a conversation with journalists that such a move would be reprehensible, as it would effectively disregard the votes of the city’s residents.
Community Enlargement as a Pretext for Elections
Simonyan highlighted that the primary concern is the potential for new elections to be called by attaching a small village to Gyumri, thereby nullifying the current electoral mandate. “This means they will try to hold new elections by attaching a small village and thus erode the people’s trust,” Simonyan explained. He also mentioned a second, less likely, option involving the city council, though he believes no political force would want to undermine their current unity.
The Fate of Over 30,000 Votes
Avetis Arakelyan, another prominent figure, echoed Simonyan’s sentiments, expressing disbelief that the more than 30,000 votes received by their faction could be ignored. Both politicians emphasized that any decision made must serve the interests of the 30,000 voters in Gyumri.
Gagik Tsarukyan’s Case and Related Developments
In related news, Gagik Tsarukyan, a notable political figure, has not accepted the charges against him. The decision to initiate criminal proceedings against him was made without overcoming his immunity. This development adds another layer of complexity to the political landscape, particularly for the “Mother Armenia” faction and its allies.
Simonyan’s Personal Experience with Law Enforcement
Karen Simonyan also shared his personal experience regarding a search of his home, stating, “I am neither an accused, nor a suspect, nor a witness. They only took the children’s phones from my house search; they wouldn’t leave empty-handed.” This incident, along with others, suggests a tense political environment in Gyumri and the broader region.
Future Implications for Gyumri
The potential for snap elections and the ongoing political tensions raise questions about the future stability and democratic processes in Gyumri. The community enlargement plan, if implemented as a means to trigger new elections, could lead to further disillusionment among the electorate. Local leaders are committed to ensuring that the voices of their constituents are heard and respected in any future decisions regarding the city’s governance.
Source: https://pastinfo.am/hy/news/2026/07/15/%D4%B1%D6%80%D5%BF%D5%A1%D5%B0%D5%A5%D6%80%D5%BF-%D5%A8%D5%B6%D5%BF%D6%80%D5%B8%D6%82%D5%B7%D5%B5%D5%B8%D6%82%D5%B6-%D5%AF%D5%A1%D6%80%D5%B8%D5%B2-%D5%A5%D5%B6-%D5%A1%D5%B6%D5%BD%D5%AF%D5%A1%D6%81%D5%B6%D5%A5%D5%AC/1974952
