Opposition Forces in Parliament Discuss Presidential Candidates

The opposition factions 'Hayastan' and 'Pativ Unem' have yet to decide on a candidate for the presidential election.

It should be noted that today, the powers of President Armen Sarkissian were officially terminated, and parliament factions must nominate candidates for the presidency within a five-day period.

The ruling 'Civil Contract' faction announced that it will nominate Vahagn Khachaturyan, the Minister of High-Tech Industry, for the upcoming snap presidential elections, a candidate considered to be backed by the oligarch known by the nickname 'Grzo', MP Khachatur Sukiasyan from the ruling party.

Factinfo inquired with the opposition factions whether they have made a decision regarding their presidential candidates. According to Agnesa Khmoyan, a member of the 'Hayastan' faction, discussions are still ongoing, and no decision has been made.

"The appropriateness of nominating a candidate is being discussed, and if we decide to proceed, there will be a phase of discussing the candidates. Currently, the faction is conducting internal discussions," she stated.

Haik Mamijanyan from 'Pativ Unem' also mentioned that they are discussing the matter of nominating a presidential candidate. "'Pativ Unem' and 'Hayastan' factions are still debating this issue."

It is worth recalling that President Armen Sarkissian resigned on January 23. According to the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, in cases of presidential dismissal, incapacity to perform duties, resignation, or death, snap elections for the presidency must be held no sooner than 25 days and no later than 35 days after the office becomes vacant.