ITAR-TASS, Russia
 Saturday 10:51 PM GMT


Armenian premier’s supporters suggest referendum on early parliamentary polls

YEREVAN May 20

HIGHLIGHT: The issue of holding early parliamentary elections in
Armenia can be settled through a nationwide referendum if political
parties fail to agree on the issue, an Armenian lawmaker told the
Tert.am portal on Saturday.


YEREVAN, May 20. /TASS/. The issue of holding early parliamentary
elections in Armenia can be settled through a nationwide referendum if
political parties fail to agree on the issue, an Armenian lawmaker
told the Tert.am portal on Saturday.

"A referendum is the most stable way [to solve the problem], and we
can hold a popular vote on the issue to let people express their
will," said Ovik Agazaryan, a lawmaker with the Yelk parliamentary
faction, supporting incumbent Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

"If we fail to reach political accord with our partners, if there is
no other legitimate way, the Constitution leaves the possibility to
make this decision through a referendum," Agazaryan added.

He said that this scenario will be unfavorable for Armenia’s former
ruling Republican Party, which has moved into opposition despite
retaining a parliamentary majority of 58 seats in the 105-seat
parliament.

Pashinyan, the leader of the Armenian opposition, was elected
Armenia’s prime minister on May 8, following a series of protests in
the country. After the vote, Armenia’s ruling Republican Party said it
was going into opposition and rejected all posts in the new
government.

Pashinyan said on May 15 that snap parliamentary polls may be held in
the country this year.