Journalists not allowed to participate in the first round of talks in 4+4+4 format (video)
The first round of discussions over the new draft Electoral Code in the so-called 4+4+4 format proposed by the opposition Armenian National Congress (HAK) started in Yerevan in the absence of media. Before starting the talks, the participants discussed for about an hour and a half whether journalists should participate in the meeting or not. Head of the HAK faction Levon Zurabyan suggested that one or two cameras providing live broadcast be left in the hall. But Minister-Chief of Government Staff David Harutyunyan said cameras are interfering with their work. “We are waiting time on unnecessary words,” Harutyunyan said. “You are free to present your point of view after the meeting.” Naira Zohrabyan, Head of the Prosperous Armenia Party (BHK) faction, agreed that they were wasting time. Finally, Artak Zeynalyan, who represents NGOs at the talks, suggested that the first meeting be held without journalists.
