Martuni Mayor Resigns, Provides Reasons

The Mayor of Martuni, Hayk Sargsyan, has resigned. In this regard, he wrote on his Facebook page:

“Dear fellow citizens,

On March 31 and April 14 of this year, the national elections held in our republic once again reinforced our determination to build a state based on democratic values. Our struggle has always been aimed at not only having a free and sovereign Artsakh but also at establishing a legal and exemplary state. I am proud that for the sake of this great idea, we have done our best together, sharing the pain of loss and the sweet fruits of success.

In this context, my candidacy for the position of mayor in the local self-government elections held on September 8 last year aimed to make Martuni a better place. I want to sincerely thank each of you for your votes of confidence and willingness to support my work; it was my duty to be the mayor for everyone, which I have done with sincere love and respect for each of you.

Today, I want to address a topic that has compelled me to make a very important decision. You all remember the incident involving my attempt to prevent a possible confrontation between representatives of the Revolutionary Party and a group of young people from Martuni during the pre-election period by not allowing them to enter the city of Martuni.

I had the opportunity to explain to both the representatives of that political force and our fellow citizens the reasons behind my action, which was motivated by care. Today, I still assert that, although I realize that it was not the best method I could have employed. Yes, it is my oversight, and I accept it with dignity. However, I must sadly note that the incident has become a topic of political manipulation by certain forces, who are consistently trying to cast a shadow over the national elections held in Artsakh.

My journey and the love and responsibility I hold for my country and people do not give me the moral right to calmly observe this process. I, who has put my life on the altar of my homeland's freedom, am not going to compromise the integrity of our country and the political ideals I uphold for the sake of a position. After consulting with the party president and my fellow party members, I am submitting my resignation.

I thank each of you for our brief but meaningful collaboration. Please be understanding of my decision. I wish everyone health during these challenging times of the pandemic.

With respect, Hayk Sargsyan