Speaker of the National Assembly on the Prospects of Archbishop Navassard Kchoyan as New Catholicos

In a recent conversation with journalists at the National Assembly, Speaker Alen Simonian addressed the question of whether Archbishop Navassard Kchoyan could play a role in the renovation of the Church. He remarked, "I do not see him as the new Catholicos; this is an unexamined question for me."

Regarding Kchoyan's involvement in the church's renewal, Simonian stated, "I do not rule out anything regarding what role he may have in the renovations of the Church or what consequences your mentioned facts may have. What do you suggest? The man is a clergyman active in the Church and one of its most influential figures. I can say that politically, we are not engaged in any debates concerning Mr. Kchoyan; he is an active clergyman, he has expressed his opinion like other bishops, and I approach his opinions with respect, welcoming his and others' actions and wishing them success."

Simonian added that a process has begun within the Church: "You know what document is at the base of the process, and the Prime Minister has met and discussed the process with them, expressing satisfaction that the process has started. Whether at the end of this process there will be one individual in that room, or if 10 people will be added, or if everyone will remain, is a matter of time and processes. At this moment, I cannot predict or assess anyone currently in that room, as there are two fixed points for me at this moment. It has been announced that the current Catholicos, Ktrich Nersisyan, has violated his oath—he has a child, which he has not denied, and a very disgraceful issue has come to light on the internet regarding Bishop Arshak, which I do not welcome and condemn—this is a fact at this moment."

Regarding allegations of pressure on bishops, Alen Simonian stated, "Many people gathered, then individuals from different villages and regions started approaching. I believe this 'pressure' exists, and I am saddened that this 'pressure' has only affected the consciousness of the bishops. They have seen that indeed, there is an issue, and that problem is significant."