Forces Uniting Us: Artsakh State Minister Responds to Personal Attacks

The State Minister of Artsakh, Gurgen Nersisyan, shared a message on his Facebook page in response to false and derogatory information being circulated about him.

“Dear compatriots, It has been 15 days since I have been working as the State Minister of the Republic of Artsakh. During these days, with all the capabilities of the executive authority, we have been working almost around the clock, not only to mitigate the consequences of the blockade of Artsakh but also to restore the activities of the priority sectors of the economy. However, certain media outlets in Armenia and some social media users, driven by clear motives and influence, have begun spreading false and slanderous information about me, without even attempting to conceal its origin and background,” Nersisyan stated.

“Considering that such phenomena can shape unfounded opinions or impressions among the public, I feel compelled to respond and declare the following:

1. During the pre-war period, I was one of the rare officials in the public system who publicly expressed disagreement with certain events occurring in the country, and I resigned from my position. After the war, understanding my personal responsibility, I took on my dedicated mission and switched to civil service, realizing the uniqueness of the post-war country, the existing problems, the unacceptability of prioritizing personal over state interests, and the importance of preserving and protecting Artsakh with collective force.
2. Upon being elected as the Prosecutor General in 2021, I was the first to announce my refusal of a luxury service vehicle, and I refrained from making such an announcement in my current position to avoid unnecessary commentary. I have continued to use my personal vehicle, have not acquired a service vehicle, and have used the available service vehicle only in rare cases, when my own vehicle was engaged in fulfilling other state-related tasks.
3. There are individuals who spread false rumors about me and the government's activities during interactions with our citizens, attributing inaction or shortcomings to me and making blatant false statements. I have periodically been informed of such information. After identifying these individuals, the motives and goals behind their actions were also revealed. Nevertheless, I want to declare that during my 15 days of work as the State Minister, I have uncovered unimaginable problems and shortcomings, but I have refrained from publicizing them or elevating myself by blaming others; instead, I have focused on their immediate resolution. I hope my approach is justified and correct, and that some will no longer take advantage of my restraint and pro-state stance.
4. Serious issues related to the supply of goods and exorbitant prices have been identified, and significant systematic work has already been done towards their regulation. I believe that the results of these measures will be visible to our citizens in the coming days, continuously ensuring strong state and public oversight over entrepreneurs.
5. From my first day in office, I have initiated the process of acquiring and supplying seeds for spring crops, deeming it a crucial priority for ensuring long-term food security for the population. I prefer not to speak publicly about how many problems we have corrected along the way.
6. As State Minister, I make daily decisions, cutting unjustified or no longer justified allocations, each time being aware of the potential for dissatisfaction or public criticism from specific individuals or circles. I consider it unacceptable to govern the state merely to satisfy individuals or avoid criticism; henceforth, I will continue to prioritize the public interest over the interests of specific individuals or groups.
7. Both as Prosecutor General and now, I have maintained high operational relations with the leadership of the Russian peacekeeping forces in Artsakh, and with some, the relationships have long become friendly. I had no connection to the recent civil action that took place at the location of the Russian peacekeepers; I attended the location upon the proposal of the President of the Republic of Artsakh, the head of the National Security Service, and the Minister of Internal Affairs, and after discussing with them, to speak with our citizens and resolve the tense situation. If anyone was willing to personally meet with the citizens and address the matter in a civil manner, no one could have prevented that. However, when there is no face to stand in front of people, rumors and accusations begin.
8. In any case, only a person who subordinates the interests of Artsakh to their own desires could consistently attempt to present the State Minister of the Republic of Artsakh as an official acting against the Russian peacekeeping forces in Artsakh. By the way, implementing our planned programs with the Russian community in Artsakh might provoke strong reactions from some, if not nervous breakdowns.

To summarize, I’d like to emphasize that 15 days is not sufficient even to get acquainted with the issues; yet, I have immediately entered the whirlwind of operational problem-solving while simultaneously striving for long-term and systematic solutions. However, internal solidarity and mutual respect are crucial priorities for me, especially during such a heavy crisis; it is unfortunate that some prefer to continuously disrupt and divide while simultaneously not forgetting to toast the need for unity. I reaffirm my willingness to listen to everyone and collaborate with all for the sake of the security, welfare, and continuity of Artsakh,” wrote the State Minister.