“Step on the gas. Go Away”
The Armenian National Congress (HAK) today marched to the Administrative Court to hand the signatures of 7230 Armenian citizens protesting against the unjustified sharp rise in the gas price.
The Court has decided to hold written proceeding on the suit brought against ArmRusgasprom while the protesters demanded that the Court provide oral and transparent proceeding.
The marchers were carrying placards "Serzhik, step on the gas, go away!" and chanting "Serzhik- killer. Serzhik -go away!"
We do not want to live in a country where authorities rob us. We say no to robbery and advance in prices," HAK activists announced over megaphones urging passers-by to join the protest.
"Only people with side income can afford gas in the republic. People living on salary cannot endure these conditions," said rallier Eva Adamyan.
Another participant of the procession, Karine Davtyan, assured A1+ that the rally does not pursue political goals. "Gas price hike will affect the budget of each family. It is strange that the authorities tout the new prices."
The ralliers congratulated the police on Police Day.
The lawyer Vahe Hovsepyan handed the citizens' application to the Administrative Court, whereafter the action was finished.
HAK Coordinator Levon Zurabyan said the Court will have to take into account the demand of citizens.
"99% of the public are against the price hike. I think today's action will draw the Court's attention to the issue," added economist Vahagn Khachatryan.
The RA Public Services Regulatory Commission approved ArmRusgasprom's application for a rise in gas price from April 1, 2010. The current gas price is 132 AMD per cubic meter for the population and 243 AMD per cubic meter for large consumers.
