Armenia’s third president Serzh Sargsyan announced that the Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) will not participate in the June 7, 2026 parliamentary elections, citing the need to avoid further fragmentation within the opposition.

Speaking at the party’s 18th congress, Sargsyan acknowledged internal disagreement over the decision, noting that some members believed the party could surpass the electoral threshold. “I know that, with proper work, we could have exceeded the four percent threshold,” he said.

Despite the decision, Sargsyan emphasized that the RPA will remain politically active. “Even without direct participation, the RPA will continue to be at the center of political developments,” he stated.

He framed the move as a strategic choice aimed at strengthening the broader opposition landscape, arguing that RPA supporters are prepared to back other opposition forces. “Our voters’ voices will not be lost but will join those of other opposition voters,” he said.

At the same time, Sargsyan delivered a sharp critique of the ruling Civil Contract Party, accusing it of undermining national identity and questioning core elements of Armenian statehood.

“You are a disgraceful page in Armenia’s history, one that must be turned immediately,” he said.

Meanwhile, the ruling Civil Contract Party confirmed Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan as its candidate for prime minister and approved its electoral list ahead of the vote.

—