VAZGEN MANUKIAN LACKS FUNDS FOR EFFECTIVE CAMPAIGNING, AIDE SAYS
ARMENPRESS
Jan 10, 2008
YEREVAN, JANUARY 10, ARMENPRESS: Samvel Shahinian, head of a small
party that supports veteran politician, Vazgen Manukian’s presidential
bid, said today the authorities should be interested in helping
Manukian to convey his election manifesto to as many voters as possible
"because it is very important for the country’s political palette."
Samvel Shahinian, picked by Vazgen Manukian to head his campaign office
for the February 19 presidential election, said democratic norms
require that the government should form a format to help opposition
to make its ideas available to the public at large.
Mr. Shahinian complained of scarce financial means for promoting
the pre-election campaign, expressing hope that some Armenians will
make their donations to Manukian’s election fund. He said some local
businessmen have made donations, but they are still insufficient for
effective campaigning.
He said Vazgen Manukian’s National Democratic Union (NDU) has opened
21 campaign offices in Yerevan and beyond it and more offices will
open soon in every constituency.
He said also due to lack of funds Manukian will use less of paid
airtime to advertise his platform.