Direct Protest Rally in Front of the Zoo

As the Yerevan Zoo opens for the season, current and former employees have staged a protest in front of the zoo demanding the resignation of the zoo's director, Ruben Khachatryan.

Former employees are calling for the resignation of Ruben Khachatryan and several of his staff members.

The employees justify their demand for Khachatryan's resignation by expressing concern that since his appointment as director in 2011, the zoo has been heading towards disaster, with an increase in the number of animal deaths during his tenure.

Participants in the protest are urging the establishment of a management board and the holding of elections for a new director, allowing specialists and animal lovers to present their vision for the zoo. They are also requesting the creation of a commission that will include representatives from the municipality as well as specialists to discuss issues related to the zoo's development. These proposals have also been submitted to the city hall.

It is important to note that Ruben Khachatryan has responded to allegations against him, claiming that he is being slandered. As for the accusations of inefficient management, Khachatryan stated that he has an environmental education from the University of Geneva—something few possess—and that the results of his 7-year tenure demonstrate his capabilities.

Video: Aysor.am