Ruben Mkhitaryan: Nikol Pashinyan’s Rule More Deadly Than the 1988 Earthquake
Gyumri, Shirak Province, Armenia, April 12, 2026 – Ruben Mkhitaryan, the head of the “My Mighty Community” faction in the Gyumri City Council and a well-known producer, has issued a powerful statement asserting that the current leadership under Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has proven to be more devastating than the catastrophic 1988 Spitak earthquake.
Mkhitaryan’s claims are based on official mortality statistics, which he presented as follows:
- 1988: 51,075 deaths
- 2020: 36,170 deaths
- 2021: 34,440 deaths
“Nikol is more deadly than an earthquake,” Mkhitaryan wrote, emphasizing that these figures are drawn from official sources. This declaration has ignited significant debate and concern, particularly in Gyumri, a city still bearing the scars of the 1988 earthquake.
Context of the Statement
Mkhitaryan’s comments come amidst a backdrop of various political and social discussions in Armenia. His past statements, as reflected in related publications, indicate a consistent critical stance towards the current government. For instance, he previously criticized the Prime Minister for allegedly using “shackles” against 18-year-olds who were once encouraged to protest, and for what he perceives as a campaign against the church.
The comparison to the 1988 earthquake is particularly poignant in Armenia, where the quake remains a national trauma. The Spitak earthquake, which struck on December 7, 1988, caused immense destruction, particularly in the northern regions of the Armenian SSR, including Gyumri (then Leninakan) and Spitak. The official death toll was estimated at 25,000 to 50,000, with hundreds of thousands left homeless.
Political and Social Repercussions
The statement by Mkhitaryan is likely to resonate deeply within the Armenian society, especially among those who have lost loved ones in recent conflicts or who are critical of the government’s handling of various crises. The reference to “official sources” for the death statistics adds weight to his argument, prompting calls for detailed analysis and governmental response.
The broader political landscape in Armenia continues to be turbulent, with ongoing debates on constitutional reforms, the Karabakh conflict, and the aftermath of the 2020 Azerbaijani military aggression. Figures like Mkhitaryan are actively participating in these discussions, often expressing strong opinions on national issues.
It is important to note that such comparisons, while impactful, often serve to highlight deep-seated public discontent and political polarization. The government, on its part, has often faced criticism regarding its policies and their perceived impact on the country’s demographics and overall well-being.
Further Developments Expected
The implications of Mkhitaryan’s statement are significant. It is expected to fuel further discussions in media and political circles, potentially leading to demands for accountability and transparency regarding national statistics and governmental performance. The local community in Gyumri, having experienced profound loss in 1988, may find this comparison particularly resonant, potentially galvanizing public sentiment.
The full scope and impact of these claims will unfold as political discourse continues in Armenia, with various factions and public figures weighing in on the critical issues facing the nation.
Source: pastinfo.am
