`The post of president is great responsibility’

Azat Artsakh
16-04-2007 11:41:48 – KarabakhOpen

Interview with the head of the NKR State Security Service Bako
Sahakyan

Mr. Sahakyan, the recent polls give you the highest rating among the
likely presidential candidates in NKR. What is your attitude?

I am happy that the institution of the public opinion is developing in
the country. As to the likely presidential candidates, I think this
question needs a more serious consideration.

What do you mean?

It is a highly responsible decision for any person who realizes that
the post of president is first of all great responsibility for the
fate of people and the state rather than a political privilege. I
realize this as a citizen, and as a public official, therefore I
cannot express my attitude earlier.

How about today?

Recently we’ve had meetings with the leaders of the influential
parties and NGOs. Representatives of the intelligentsia and the youth,
the veterans of World War II and the war in Artsakh came up to me with
proposals. During these meetings I felt real support and now I can
say that I may be running in the presidential election. And if I am
nominated, it will be a conscious decision acknowledging the great
responsibility which I will assume if I am elected president.

Does it mean that you already have agreement with the political forces
over your nomination?

I have already said that there is timing set down in the law. The
present stage is a stage of consultations. Besides, if I make up my
mind, I will prefer nomination on a civil initiative not to offend any
of the parties whom I respect and whose support I will need.