City Hall Clarifies Why Former Zoo Director Was Dismissed

The former acting director of Yerevan Zoo, Vladimir Simonyan, was dismissed from his position because he did not meet the documentary requirements for the director role. This was stated by the press secretary of the Yerevan Mayor, Hakob Karapetyan, in an interview with Armenpress.

When asked how he was appointed to the position if this was the case, Karapetyan noted that the relevant information had only recently come to light. "These data indicate that Simonyan does not meet the documentary requirements for the director's position. Therefore, there was a need to appoint a new acting director. A decision was made to appoint Arevik Mkrtchyan, who has significant experience in the field and has worked at the zoo; in addition, she is an experienced and qualified specialist in the sector," said the Mayor's press secretary.

On August 9, Yerevan Zoo employees held a protest against the appointment of the new acting director, Arevik Mkrtchyan. The employees pointed out that Mkrtchyan is a close associate and team member of former director Ruben Khachatryan and insisted that they would not allow the previous staff to return.

When asked if this was true, Karapetyan replied negatively. "Yes, Arevik Mkrtchyan worked with former director Ruben Khachatryan. To avoid misunderstandings, it must be noted that most of the employees currently working at the zoo also worked during that time. I want to dispel the notion that Arevik Mkrtchyan will come in and execute Ruben Khachatryan's plans; such a thing will not happen," said Karapetyan.

Regarding the news that Vladimir Simonyan, who is currently in the hospital, was not notified of his dismissal, the Mayor's press secretary stated that he had been orally informed about it several times. "The legislative framework does not provide for a notification procedure regarding the cessation of the acting director’s authorities. Before going to the hospital, Mr. Simonyan was verbally informed about this and was aware," emphasized Karapetyan.

Earlier, zoo employees had told reporters that they would continue their protests until the issues they raised were resolved.