Armenian Assembly of America
1140 19th Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202-393-3434
Fax: 202-638-4904
Email: [email protected]
Web:
PRESS RELEASE
March 10, 2008
Contact: Christine Kojoian
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 393-3434
ARMENIA’S CONSTITUTIONAL COURT RENDERS DECISION
Armenian Assembly Continues to Emphasize Importance of Democratic
Principles, End to Violence
Washington, DC – While the Constitutional Court has issued its ruling
upholding the election results as announced by the Central Election
Commission, the Armenian Assembly of America continues to be concerned
about the restrictions imposed by President Robert Kocharian’s
Administration, including respect for freedom of speech and freedom of
assembly, as well as ongoing arrests and detentions. We urge that the
basic civil rights protections be upheld.
No one wishes to see a repetition of the events of March 1, 2008, and
we urge that any further violence be avoided at all costs. It is
imperative that the rule of law prevail, and that the media fairly and
accurately cover the developments.
We are also keenly aware that the political divisions that have been
created in Armenia have already begun to impact the Diaspora. We
continue to receive calls from across the country from supporters and
friends alike who have voiced their strong concerns and expectations.
There is no doubt that this is a critical time for the future of
Armenia and its citizens. The need for political dialogue is great, as
many have expressed their strong dissatisfaction and disappointment
with what the OSCE has called "implausibly" high voter turnout at
specific Precinct Election Commissions.
We note that the Prime Minister has discussed the need to heal the
country and called for reconciliation. We also note that Armenia’s
Ombudsman has issued a statement, which called for political
dialogue. We appreciate these statements. We encourage continued
participation of Armenia’s electorate and urge ongoing engagement in
the process to ensure open, honest and sincere dialogue with all
political forces involved with the presidential election to heal the
country for the betterment of all Armenians.
Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly of America is the largest
Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public
understanding and awareness of Armenian issues. It is a 501(c)(3)
tax-exempt membership organization.
NR#2008-028