We Are Receiving Reports of Harassment and Terrorization by Officials: Vanadzor Mayor

Vanadzor Mayor Mamikon Aslanyan, who is running as a candidate in the December 4 elections, wrote on his Facebook page:

“Dear fellow citizens, loved employees of state institutions and organizations, healthcare workers, educators, and esteemed law enforcement personnel, we are receiving various reports about unacceptable and often inhumane harassment happening in our city, including blunt terrorization carried out by certain officials. These instances involve forcing employees to write resignation letters, unjustified inspections, threats of criminal prosecution, and other immoral methods—aimed at coercing people against their will to 'bring votes' for a specific candidate in the local government elections. Do not engage in wicked games with the communities of Vanadzor and surrounding areas. As gentle and calm as the people here may be, they are equally spontaneous and principled when provoked.

I ask for the forgiveness of those individuals and groups I do not visit or meet. Those who know me are aware of my attitude towards employees of the public system, doctors, educators, and individuals involved in production. My actions are solely dictated by your own safety, to avoid putting you in unnecessary danger, lest you find yourselves without work in the imminent threat. I love you all dearly; consider that I have shared a piece of bread and exchanged a few words with each of you. We will continue to work. God be with us all.”