BAKO SAHAKIAN: THE POST OF PRESIDENT IS NOT A POLITICAL PRIVILEGE

Azat Artsakh Daily, Republic of Nagorno Karabakh [NKR]
16 April 07

Interview of the Azat Artsakh with the head of the NKR State Security
Service Bako Sahakian AA: Mr. Sahakian, 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. AA: 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. AA: 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. AA:
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.