Siradeghyan Wanted to Come to Armenia, But He Would Have Had to Be Arrested for 72 Hours, Which Was Unacceptable for Him: Khachatur Sukiasyan

Former Minister of Internal Affairs Vano Siradeghyan wanted to come to Armenia, but the law required that he be arrested for 72 hours, which was unacceptable for him, said Khachatur Sukiasyan, a member of the Civil Contract faction, in an interview with 24news.am. He noted that lawyers were working on potential changes to the law, but the ongoing pandemic and war hindered that process.

“It was Vano Siradeghyan’s decision not to return. The law did not allow for Vano Siradeghyan to just come; the law stated that he would have to be arrested for 72 hours. I think that option was not acceptable for Siradeghyan,” he stated.

According to Sukiasyan, there was no issue related to the authorities, but rather a problem with the judicial system. “I regret it. Vano Siradeghyan was a person of deep thought, very talented, and with profound insights. What he said is very relevant today,” Sukiasyan added.

He also mentioned that he is not aware if the authorities are discussing the issue of burying Siradeghyan at the Komitas Pantheon, as requested by the Armenian National Congress. “As far as I know, there are legal issues related to his transfer,” Sukiasyan noted, adding that he has been able to communicate with Siradeghyan in recent years.

“Yes, there have been communications, and his sober and mature mindset has always amazed me. Vano Siradeghyan was indeed a very talented person.” Sukiasyan stated that Siradeghyan was “not offended, and that is where his surprise lies.” He emphasized, “He did not blame anyone.”

“If Vano Siradeghyan were to return, he would not only be a competitor to the authorities, but also very beneficial with his advice—not just to the authorities, but many others as well,” he concluded.