GURGEN ARSENIAN ASSUMES RESPONSIBILITY FOR 2007 PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 22, NOYAN TAPAN. On December 21, RA NA in second
reading discussed the legislative package on making amendments
and additions to the Electoral Code, the voting of which was
postponed. About 1.5 dozens of MPs were present at the discussion
lasting the whole day, among which the oppositionists distinguished
themselves by their activity. As it was expected, the Ardarutiun
(Justice) and National Unity factions that refused of the latter’s
co-authorship some months ago spoke against the draft. They blamed
political forces making part of the ruling coalition for violating
the political agreement reached at the initial stage of draft’s
elaboration, for rejecting their proposals of principle, for not only
keeping loop-holes of possible falsifications, but also stipulating
new ones in the draft. The Orinats Yerkir (Country of Law) faction,
that has withdrawn its signature lately, also expressed an opinion
that after the first reading "some retreat has been registered"
on the part of 10 amended articles. Among draft co-authors, ULP
faction leader Gurgen Arsenian declared on hehalf of himself and
the party headed by him that he assumes responsibility for the
2007 parliamentary elections. In his words, the oppositionists’
statements on falsification of the forthcoming elections can not
only contribute to public’s passivity, but also enable non-friendly
foreign forces to speculate the Armenian elections and to use them
against the country. RPA faction head Galust Sahakian reminded to the
draft’s opponents that if the package of amendments is voted down, the
current code will remain in force, as there is no time for beginning
a new process of elaboration of amendments any more. Opposing to
oppositionists’ accusations, he declared: "Maybe the people does not
like us, but it does not accept you at all."

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress