ARKADY GHUKASIAN NOT GOING TO RUN FOR PRESIDENT AGAIN

PanARMENIAN.Net
11.10.2006 18:23 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ October 11 Nagorno Karabakh President Arkady
Ghukasian gave a briefing for local and accredited reporters, said
NKR MFA press office.

The NKR President said in part, "I have found it necessary to meet
with you an issue that aroused my concern lately. Rumors are being
spread about my intention to run for President for the third time.

Especially, the initiators of such rumors say that the NKR Constitution
is being adopted for this very purpose. I would never react to such
insinuations but for two reasons – the image of the Nagorno Karabakh
Republic as a democratic state and the fundamental importance of
Constitution for the existence out our state.

As a politician and civilian I have no more important goal than
the international recognition of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic and
building of a legal state.

During the years of my office I have been trying to speed up this
processes. You witnessed the difficulties we gave experienced on the
way to civic society formation. I do not conceal my consent with
the fact that many challenges were overcome thanks to our people,
who supported the President’s line. I have not turned off the way
and think it’s the only right way that exists.

Constitution is one of the most important conditions for a legal state
building and all the political forces in our state are unanimous on the
issue. During my election campaign I promised to render the essential
assistance in the elaboration and adoption of the Organic Law of the
country but unfortunately a number of circumstances conditioned by
the Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement didn’t allow us to adopt the
Constitution earlier. I must say that despite the efforts exerted by
the evil-wishers I feel obliged to keep my promise to people.

I deeply regret that my position is being distorted. I assure you
I have no intention to run for President for the third time. Even
is the Constitution provides for this right it does not mean that I
will exercise it. I highlight the norms of morals like the norms of
laws. As an individual and as President I did my utmost to make the
process of democratization of our republic irreversible.

I am convinced that Nagorno Karabakh will once more demonstrate
the high level of democracy and will use the chance to exercise a
civilized chance of power. In this view my major task is to secure
a fair election next year.

In conclusion I would like to voice hope that my today’s statement will
put an end to any fabrications that can damage the international image
of the Nagorno Karabakh Republic and disorient public opinion on the
true aims of adoption of the NKR Constitution," the NKR leader said.