R. Hovhannisian refuses to stop hunger strike
"Heritage" party MPs today took advantage of the hour of announcements at the National Assembly. However, they made their announcements at Freedom Square and not in parliament.
Addressing Armenia's foreign policy, Larisa Alaverdyan said the government's foreign policy ignores Armenia's sovereignty and national interests in the long run, while the domestic policy is deepening social inequality, illegitimacy and injustice and these are all leading to emigration.
Anahit Bakhshyan spoke about the divergence between Serzh Sargsyan's words and actions. "The authorities prohibit Raffi Hovhannisian from pitching a tent. By doing so, they are violating basic human rights and the RA Ombudsman has also registered this."
Zaruhi Postanjyan continued by saying that citizens no longer have the right to turn a cheek.
"Raffi Hovhannisian's hunger strike is sounding the alarm to all Armenians. Let's not let any more Armenians leave the country."
Stepan Safaryan presented the meaning of Raffi Hovhannisian's hunger strike called "Fast for Freedom". "The state of emergency in the country presupposes extreme solutions. Concerned with keeping the country away from tumbling down, he has decided to continue the struggle from the National Assembly to the square for the formation of a legitimate government."
MP Armen Martirosyan spoke about the new draft for reforms in the Electoral Code discussed in parliament today and called on the society to join the real opposition in the fight for this government's resignation and special elections.
Raffi Hovhannisian also made an announcement. Addressing all citizens' calls to stop the hunger strike, he apologized for disturbing them, expressed his gratitude and announced that the struggle will continue.
"This unprecedented, catastrophic situation is causing a threat to Armenia's future, freedom and competitiveness in the world and it is simply compelling us to take steps sometimes that may be considered as unusual."
Mr. Hovhannisian believes that everyone knows "Heritage" party's political demands. "If any official has doubts concerning the reason why we are gathered here, he or she should read our requisition once again."
Raffi Hovhannisian mentioned that his demand is from not only the government, but the society as well.
