Numerous Negative Articles About Hayk Marutyan Observed, Says 'Media Defender'

From November 11 to 20, 2019, the 'Media Defender' initiative monitored online press coverage related to Yerevan Mayor Hayk Marutyan and his activities. A total of 35 leading news sites within Armenia were regularly monitored. During this period, 132 articles were reviewed, of which 80 were negative, 12 positive, and 40 neutral.

This ten-day observation revealed numerous negative articles about Mayor Hayk Marutyan. Such results should be concerning for the Public Relations Department of the Municipality.

Tehima Harutyunyan, a member of the 'Luyis' bloc in the city council, posted a photo on her Facebook page showing garbage strewn on the street, subsequently quoting Hayk Marutyan's statement that the issue of waste collection has been resolved.

Tigran Avinyan commented regarding urban transport, stating that transport issues would be resolved within 1 to 23 years. Media outlets reminded that while still a candidate, Hayk Marutyan had announced that transport matters would be resolved within a 2-year timeframe. The outlets noted, 'Apparently, we still have to wait 3 more years.'

Davt Khajakyan pointed out that the city budget is being utilized ineffectively. He recalled that during Taron Margaryan's tenure as mayor, it was stated that the city administration was bloated, and added that Hayk Marutyan had further expanded it.

It has been reported that during Hayk Marutyan's term, city benches are being purchased at a higher cost than before. Tehmine Vardanyan and Ani Khachatryan addressed this issue by stating, 'If former mayor Taron Margaryan was involved in corrupt transactions regarding these benches, why are they still being acquired at the same price?' Ms. Vardanyan added, 'Clearly, either Taron Margaryan was not involved in corruption on this issue, or Hayk Marutyan is engaging in corrupt practices.' They urged the Procurement Monitoring Center to investigate this matter.

In fact, themes related to urban issues and declarations of corruption risks have increased.