Opposition Nominates Ishkhan Sagatelyan for Deputy Speaker for the Third Time

The National Assembly's "Hayastan" faction has nominated Ishkhan Sagatelyan for the position of Deputy Speaker for the third time, supported by the other opposition faction, "Honorary to Have".

After Ishkhan Sagatelyan was not elected as Speaker of the National Assembly for the second time, Assembly Speaker Alen Simonian suggested suspending this issue and moving on to the next agenda item, adding that the law provides for such an opportunity.

Hayastan faction secretary Artsvik Minasyan stated that the procedural law does not specify how many times a vote can be held before moving on to the next agenda item. He emphasized their determination to resolve this issue before proceeding to the next one.

Speaker Simonian also responded, stating that there is indeed determination, but his suggestion arises from the need to ensure the smooth functioning of the Assembly. He indicated that before making this proposal, he had spoken with the leader of the Hayastan faction, Seyran Ohanyan, and Armen Rustamyan.

Simonian added that he sees the solution to the parliamentary crisis through transitioning to the discussion of the next issue.

Hayastan faction MP Armen Rustamyan noted that if there hadn't been two previous votes, they could have moved forward with Simonian's proposal. However, since two votes have already been conducted, it seems artificial to delay the resolution of this issue. "I agree that we can revisit this in the morning or two days later. We understand, both you and we understand, that this position is reserved for the opposition. If we want to make progress, the Assembly should be formed, and indeed, you should go ahead and vote. You have the votes; ours are limited. Increase your votes and call for everyone not to undermine the voting process in this way," Rustamyan stated, adding that he does not blame anyone.

Simonian remarked that his proposal was made in agreement with them, and turned the floor over to Seyran Ohanyan of the Hayastan faction to nominate a candidate. Seyran Ohanyan again nominated Ishkhan Sagatelyan for the vacant position of Deputy Speaker.

The "Honorary to Have" faction announced that it supports the Hayastan faction's candidate and will again vote in favor of Sagatelyan's nomination.