I am once again astonished by the unique ability of 'My Step' to undermine reforms. D. Ionian

“In 'My Step', they have decided how to rape the provisions of the Electoral Code and remain unpunished,” said Daniel Ioanian, founder of the IKM NGO and member of the Public Council, on his Facebook page.

“Today, a draft law on amending and supplementing the Criminal Code regarding electoral crimes was circulated in the National Assembly, which will be discussed and voted on tomorrow (links below).

However, the draft lacks articles on major violations of campaign financing regulations that were included in the initial version, which had been sent to Venice and received approval from Venice, NGOs, and several extra-parliamentary forces.

The authorities removed these articles without any discussions with civil society and without any public debate... Moreover, this was done notwithstanding the approaches raised during consultations with civil society and public discussions regarding the necessity of ensuring financing regulations for the upcoming elections.

In other words, 'My Step' has de facto decided that during the upcoming elections, parties can receive funding from oligarchs and abroad, spending as much under-the-table money as they want and violate the provisions of the Electoral Code without facing any consequences.

P.S. I have heard 'My Step's' positions on the issue, but they are unacceptable, and the potential obstacles are surmountable. And I am once again astonished by 'My Step's' unique ability to undermine reforms.”