Pessimistic Predictions Are Coming True: Marutyan Makes New Statement

The former mayor of Yerevan and current member of the Yerevan City Council, Hayk Marutyan, wrote on his Facebook page: "Unfortunately, our pessimistic predictions are coming true; the City Council cannot work effectively with its current configuration. Dear Yerevan residents, do you remember that after the elections we proposed going for new elections to ensure normal governance in Yerevan? The members of the ruling 'Civil Contract' party and their affiliates, as well as some opposition members, rejected this path. Now, two months later, we see that the city authorities are unable to make the most basic decisions, and the Council sessions have turned into a platform for the coarsest insults instead of civilized debate. This, as I said, was expected because A MINORITY CANNOT GOVERN EFFECTIVELY (I remind you that out of 65 members of the Council, only 32 represent the ruling party, meaning they are a minority). They have neither formal nor factual legitimacy, and under these circumstances, the issues are becoming increasingly evident and will ultimately harm our city.

Therefore, my proposal remains in effect—to hold new municipal elections and form a stable government for the sake of our city's normal development. P.S. Our critics were saying in September that the proposal for new elections was unacceptable, allegedly 'to avoid unnecessary expenses in the created conditions.' This is at least a laughable rationale, considering that the ruling party is squandering budgetary funds 'in the created conditions' on lavish ceremonies, failed concert events, New Year and other celebrations."