We Will Not Directly Falsify the Elections, That is the Formula - Badassyan

During a question and answer session with the Government in the National Assembly, LHK faction MP Srbuhi Grigoryan raised a concern regarding claims that the Government will use its leverage to somehow falsify the early elections. She inquired about what mechanisms would be put in place to prevent violations.

Justice Minister Rustam Badassyan responded, stating that there will not be direct falsification of the elections. “That is the formula. Why would we falsify, especially since after 2018, it is impossible to turn back the wheel,” he said, adding that it is not possible to distort the will of the citizens.

“Regarding more specific mechanisms, I believe that the current government has the political will; perhaps, for example, we will strengthen the Criminal Code or make specific changes to the Code of Administrative Offenses to ensure effective mechanisms for the detection and investigation of electoral crimes. Moreover, I believe that the Electoral Code provides all necessary opportunities for civil society, opposition factions, and even extra-parliamentary forces to carry out their oversight,” Badassyan stated.

In response to Badassyan, the MP expressed concern that somewhat tense elections are anticipated and incidents of violence cannot be ruled out, given the current political climate. She asked what the Government would do to eliminate these issues. “I do not share this concern; the prevention of violence and the investigation of such incidents will be handled with utmost rigor by the Police of the Republic of Armenia,” Badassyan replied.