What Assessment Does the Mayor Give on Avinyan's Visit to Surmalu?

The Mayor of Yerevan, Hrachya Sargsyan, was asked today by Hraparak.am about his assessment of Tigran Avinyan's visit yesterday to the site of the explosion at the Surmalu market. Amid this tragedy, Avinyan was, in fact, running a campaign by announcing that he was there as a candidate for mayor from the ruling Civil Contract party.

"I cannot assess that it was a campaign. I think it’s more of a regular visit rather than a campaign. I did not understand the journalists’ question honestly—what was the purpose of his presence there. Any citizen could have been there. I think it would be more appropriate to ask Mr. Avinyan that question," said the Mayor.

If he was just an ordinary citizen, then he wouldn't need to make such statements and stand there to answer journalists' questions. At this moment, Avinyan holds no status other than being a member of the Civil Contract party.

"I didn’t say anything, but I think that question should probably be directed to Mr. Avinyan. Regardless, what is your opinion about the upcoming elections next year, including Avinyan's candidacy, and what participation will you have in those elections?"

"I think it is still early to start campaigning. There is still plenty of time. We are working; personally, I am a team player, and whatever decision is made will guide us forward from there."