Bako Sahakyan's Resignation is a Crucial Issue: Samvel Babayan's Statement

Samvel Babayan's office has issued a statement. “Reports in the media suggesting that Samvel Babayan will not run for the presidency of Artsakh in the event of Bako Sahakyan's resignation are not true. Bako Sahakyan's resignation and Samvel Babayan's candidacy cannot be connected in any way, from any perspective. Moreover, to speak of any agreement is out of the question. These are two very different processes.

The signature collection has concluded, and the process of legitimizing or not legitimizing this project has begun. It will proceed according to the law, following all necessary steps. When it reaches its resolution, and when this project is approved, Samvel Babayan will undoubtedly announce his candidacy. As for Bako Sahakyan's resignation, it is a crucial issue. Bako Sahakyan should resign immediately for illegally seizing the presidency of Artsakh for a third time, which constitutes a violation of constitutional order. New elections must be held in Artsakh, where the people of Artsakh will express their clear voice in forming a legitimate government for themselves. The democracy that has been stifled in Artsakh for nearly twenty years must ultimately prevail, ensuring healthy political competition for all forces. This is the imperative of today; the agenda must include Bako Sahakyan's resignation.”