Armenia: Opposition leaders sought Sh3b loan
Standard, Kenya
March 14 2006
Below is the written statement read by Artur Sargsyan.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
My name is Artur Sargsyan. I have just arrived from Dubai. I was last
in Kenya on 25th February, 2006.
During the last few days I have been greatly troubled by reports
emanating from your local press to the effect that I am a mercenary
and that I was part of the gang that raided the Standard Group. These
accusations are entirely false hence the decision to come to Kenya
today.
The truth of the matter is as follows: My brother, Artur Margaryan
and I have vast business ventures in Dubai where we ordinarily
reside. We also have various investments in several other countries.
Late last year we came to Kenya to seek business investment in the
Hotel Industry and general trade. Upon arrival, we were introduced to
local politicians including Hon Raila Odinga and Hon Kalonzo Musyoka.
A request was made to us to finance an anticipated vote of No
Confidence against the President. The sum, which was requested, was
Sh3 billion. We declined to finance the exercise as we do not engage
in local politics in all the countries where we have investments.
I must nevertheless state that Hon Raila Odinga also requested a loan
of $1.5 million, which I advanced to him on the basis that he will
repay the debt by mid January, 2006. He has not repaid the debt to
date.
My uncle is the President of the Republic of Armenia and I am a
Presidential Candidate. I am appalled by the baseless accusations in
your Press.
Your political leaders should not be peddlers of falsehood and the
Press should not merely publish sensational but senseless stories
which can damage the reputation of persons whose only interest in
your country is to invest in legitimate trade. I have come to your
county today to clear my name and to demand my money that Hon Raila
Odinga owes me. I will also have an opportunity to discuss this
matter with my lawyers.
Signed by: Artur Sargsyan
JKIA, Nairobi
13th March, 2006′