“It’s not just about smiling, there are also sunflower seed eaters.” Gegham Nazaryan

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Armenian Armed Forces. In opposition to the government’s behavior, the parliamentary opposition has been visiting military units and positions, spending time with soldiers during this day.

In an interview with us, Gegham Nazaryan, a member of the ‘Armenia’ alliance, mentioned that he, Tehmine Vardanyan, and Arthur Ghazinyan traveled to the combat positions in Tavush yesterday. When asked how the mood was in Tavush, Nazaryan noted: “The overall mood was normal. One of the conscript soldiers mentioned that he felt like the soldier was of no use to anyone. The army needs us today. After the war, it is difficult for both leaders and soldiers to feel good. They cannot be cheerful. Everyone has lost friends and relatives. The soldier also points out that he has not lost.”

The media inquired about the widespread discussions online regarding MP Lusine Badalyan’s wide smile against the backdrop of the somber atmosphere at Yerevan’s Yerablur. Nazaryan emphasized: “Lusine is not alone. I don’t want to comment on her now, but people need to understand that going to Yerablur while eating sunflower seeds is not acceptable. I have to say the same about those going to Tsitsernakaberd. Our society has a problem with how to conduct itself. Perhaps Lusine remembered something and was smiling, that’s not the issue. The problem is that high-ranking officials fall ill during the 30th anniversary of the Armenian Armed Forces. Beyond declarative statements, the army needs us.”