Sunday, 28 June 2015
Statement by RA Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan
Forces have appeared in Bagramyan Avenue, whose main concern is not actually to prevent electricity tariffs from going up, but to create instability in the country and instigate disturbances in society. They are pushing to the forefront vague and shortsighted political aspirations instead of the problem’s social or economic component.
This is the only conclusion that can be drawn merely because the day before, in addition to addressing in all detail the state of affairs in the energy sector and stating the reasons behind the planned rise in electricity tariffs, President Serzh Sargsyan declared that the decision to raise the tariffs would be subject to international audit, with the Government to assume the burden of increased tariffs pending the publication of the auditor’s findings. We expressed readiness to engage the expert community and civil society all the way through this process.
Under these circumstances, we cannot understand the protesters’ unlawful decision to keep blocking Bagramyan Avenue, especially as the initiators of the campaign declared subsequently that the protest action would be continued in Liberty Square.
After getting a solution to their concerns, the members of the “No to Robbery” initiative group demonstrated high-level legal awareness, which actually stems from the interests of society and the State.
Their decision confirmed the optimistic assertion that a truly good generation is growing up in our country, as young people feel responsibility for their actions.
Reiterating the authorities’ commitment to solving problems through dialogue and joint work, once again, I call on our fellow citizens who continue with the protest action staged in Bagramyn Avenue to refrain from unconstitutional actions in order not to aggravate the situation.
Meanwhile, I do believe that any provocation against the Police is inadmissible. They deserve greatest respect as they serve our country and our nation.
