Any Positive Thing Throws the Opposition into Tumult: Babken Tunyan

Babken Tunyan, a member of the National Assembly from the 'Civil Contract' faction, reminded on his Facebook page that the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial is being renovated, with worn-out and out-of-service basalt stones being replaced. 'Isn’t it a good thing? It may seem that it takes a special talent for even a radical opposition member to find 'dirt' in this. However, our extraordinarily talented opposition should never be underestimated. They have already managed to construct conspiracy theories, labeling the construction as 'suspicious.' Some have gone even further, declaring that the treacherous authorities are dismantling the memorial to the victims of the Armenian Genocide at the request of Aliyev,' he said.

This reminded me of an incident three years ago when the state emblem of the Republic of Armenia, located on the facade of the National Assembly building, was temporarily removed for exterior renovation. Some people raised a hue and cry, claiming that the emblem was being removed forever. It also reminded me of how some seriously claimed that the Dilijan tunnel was closed not for renovation but because the treacherous authorities were preparing to concede territories to the enemy, and the tunnel was being closed so our armed forces could not reach these areas.

When the new, updated emblem reappeared on the façade of the National Assembly, none of those who made foolish statements apologized. When the Dilijan tunnel was reopened, renovated, no one apologized. I could give more examples, but these two are enough. And when months later, before the next April 24, the renovated Tsitsernakaberd Memorial opens to visitors, no one will apologize again. Because they will be busy trying to tarnish yet another positive phenomenon.

We cannot expect anything else from these people, as their goal is to blacken everything, to spread hopelessness, pessimism, and negativity at all costs. Any positive or joyous thing (be it a concert, a new school, or a serious event) throws them into turmoil and robs them of sleep.

The bad thing is that these individuals, who manipulate the emotions of their own people, disrespect the public, mislead them, plunder their own country, spread squalor, and celebrate mourning, were once entrusted with high state positions. We have lost nearly 30 precious years on the road to building a normal country.

The good thing is that our people now have immunity against such things and a memory that should not allow these individuals to decide their fate again. Patience and strong nerves for all of us,' wrote MP Babken Tunyan.