Hunger Strike in Gyumri: School Principal Demands Restoration of Dignity

Approximately an hour ago, the principal of Gyumri's School No. 2, member of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation, Hovhannes Petrosyan, declared an indefinite hunger strike in front of the Shirak regional administration building. In a conversation with Aravot.am, he stated that the reason for this action is due to a trilateral agreement which will result in handing over the Lachin corridor in two hours.

“I am calling on my nation to stand up; we are losing our country. Today, I truly feel degraded, humiliated. I do not want to live in a country where I feel humiliated, especially I do not want my children, my students, my relatives, my friends to live that way,” said Hovhannes Petrosyan.

He sadly noted that three of his graduates have fallen victim, giving their lives for nothing. The principal also warned that no one should attempt to target his family, emphasizing that he has never been registered on social media and does not intend to do so.

“I have been the principal of this school for over 21 years; I have taught how to live and how to love the homeland. After signing this infamous statement, I consulted with my historian friend, saying, 'After all, our textbooks include the commemoration of Shushi's capture, “Wedding in the Mountains”; what will we tell our children, our offspring next May?' I don’t know, I feel empty, degraded. I do not want to live like this,” the principal stated.

He also pointed out that two and a half years ago, they demanded steps be taken, and now it is time for real action: they are losing a state, losing a country. “We have been humiliated; we can no longer remain silent, we have no one to fear; we have lost the country. I want them to allow my pride to be restored as an Armenian,” declared the ARF principal.