Ombudsman says he can act as mediator between authorities and opposition
Armenian Ombudsman Karen Andreasyan thinks that his proposal to act as mediator between the ruling authorities and the opposition is not exhausted though the sides have refused his proposal.
During today's press conference, Andreasyan dwelt on the statement of Republican faction chairman Galust Sahakyan who said that acting as a mediator between two political entities is not constitutionally prescribed as part of Ombudsman's functions.
"As a lawyer I can prove the otherwise. One simply needs to read the Armenian Constitution and the Law on the Ombudsman (Article 2) to understand that I am empowered to act as a mediator," said Karen Andreasyan who was nominated for the post of ombudsman by the ruling coalition.
"I am grateful to the Armenian National Congress (HAK) for not reacting to my proposal negatively. I am also familiar with the opinion of Pan-Armenian National Movement (HHSh) leader Aram Manukyan, which allows me to once again put forth this specific proposal to the Armenian National Congress. I am hopeful that HAK will accept the offer that will open a door for a dialogue," said Andreasyan.
The Armenian Ombudsman today introduced the list of government bodies allowing for ombudsman's intervention. Andreasyan said he can personally assist individuals if their rights are violated by the following institutions: police, Prosecutor's Office, military, State Revenue Committee, Service for the Compulsory Enforcement of Judicial Acts as well as local self-government bodies.
Asked whether the ombudsman can protect citizens from oligarchs or MPs, he said it is not within his powers.
"We cannot protect people from other people or courts as courts are called to protect citizens' rights," he said asking the journalists to convey his words to the public.
In reply to a journalist's question whether there are political prisoners in Armenia, Karen Andreasyan said, "There are some convicts who consider themselves to be political prisoners which is very bad. If I express an opinion on the issue, it will mean that I support any of the sides. In that case I cannot succeed in bringing the authorities and opposition closer."
