Anti-Corruption Committee on Talin Mayor Scandal

Considering the numerous inquiries directed to the prosecuting authority by media outlets, the Anti-Corruption Committee of the Republic of Armenia informs that no criminal proceedings have been initiated regarding the alleged crime of violating the charity ban by the mayor of Talin community.

It is further clarified that the functions of the mayor are regulated by the Law on Local Self-Governance of the Republic of Armenia and other legal acts. Regardless of party affiliation, political views, or any other circumstances, the individual serving as mayor during their entire term possesses powers that derive from the Law on Local Self-Governance and other legal acts, which do not cease to exist due to their involvement in the electoral list of the National Assembly elections as a candidate.

In the case discussed, the mayor of Talin has carried out official functions aimed at addressing community issues. In this way, Tavros Sapeian made decisions regarding social assistance not as a member of a party or a candidate for deputy but as the community's mayor.

Moreover, the decisions were based not on personal motives or party interests but rather on the legally established procedures, namely, the applications for social assistance received from citizens, the positive conclusions of the permanent committee providing social assistance and the committee investigating voluntary problem-solving initiatives, which in turn stemmed from the requirements of the Law on Local Self-Governance and the relevant provisions established by the Talin community council.

Additionally, there is no data within the communication and accompanying materials, including media publications, indicating that the social assistance was accompanied by propaganda or was conditioned by circumstances hindering the free expression of voters' will, or that it was conducted in a secretive or concealed manner from the public.