Category: 2018

Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate
6252 Honolulu Avenue
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Tel: (818) 248-7737
Fax: (818) 248-7745
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.westernprelacy.org
NAME-DAY OF ST. GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR CHURCH TO BE CELEBRATED WITH
EPISCOPAL DIVINE LITURGY AND BLESSING OF MADAGH
        On Saturday, , the Armenian Church will observe the
feast of the St. Gregory the Illuminator's Descent into the Pit, which marks
the name-day of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of San Francisco.
        On this occasion, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate,
will celebrate Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon at St. Gregory the
Illuminator Church on Sunday, March 18, and following the service will
conduct the blessing of madagh.
***
VICAR GENERAL LECTURES ON "THE ARMENIAN CHURCH: PAST AND PRESENT"
        On Thursday, , a lecture titled "The Armenian Church:
Past and Present" was presented by Very Rev. Fr. Torkom Donoyan, Vicar
General, at the Western Prelacy "Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian" Hall.
The event was part of a series of lecture and literary evenings held under
the auspices of H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and
organized by the Western Prelacy Cultural-Educational Committee. The Prelate
was joined by clergy and Executive Council members.
        Following welcoming remarks by organizing committee Chair Mr. Herair
Jermakian, the program officially began with the Lord's Prayer.
        Given that the Prelate was to attend a reception in honor of H.E.
Archbishop Barkev Martirosyan, Primate of Artsakh, ahead of the 30th
anniversary celebration of the Artsakh liberation movement, he delivered his
message at the start of the program. His Eminence commended Fr. Torkom,
organizers, program participants, and guests, and stressed the importance of
regularly holding such spiritually and culturally enriching events.
Referencing the evening's topic, the Prelate stated that the Armenian Church
has always been a champion of the people and of the survival and defense of
our national identity, while the Armenian clergyman has been a staunch
advocate of our religious and national values."
        Rev. Fr. Ghevont Kirazian, who served as the evening's MC, greeted
the guests and subsequently invited the next two performers, Mrs. Suzy
Mazmanian, who sang a hymn, and Mesrobian School student Alice Khachigian
who recited poetry by Vahan Tekeyan. Fr. Ghevont next introduced Fr. Torkom
and invited him to present his lecture.
        Fr. Torkom presented the general history of the Armenian Church from
its founding in the 4th century to the present day, highlighting notable
eras and figures, interesting tidbits, its multi-faceted mission, unique
national characteristic, and more, and concluded by stating that what the
Church needs most in the present day is the engagement of the people,
especially of the youth, and collectivism. 
        At the conclusion of the lecture, Fr. Ghevont invited Mrs. Mazmanian
and Ferrahian School student Araz Arabian respectively, each of whom sang a
hymn.
        Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian, Religious Council, delivered the
closing message commending Fr. Torkom for his informative and interesting
lecture, as well as the organizers, program participants, and guests, and
urged all to do their part to keep our Church strong.
        The evening concluded with prayer and Cilicia. 
***
PRELATE WELCOMES NEW GLENDALE CITY MANAGER
        On the afternoon of Thursday, , H.E. Archbishop
Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, welcomed the visit of the newly appointed
City Manager of Glendale, Mrs. Yasmin Beers, who was accompanied by Mr. John
Takhtalian, Deputy City Manager, and Mr. Tom Lorenz, Director of
Communications and Community Relations.
        Following introductions, the Prelate congratulated Mrs. Beers on her
appointment and expressed confidence that she will thrive in her new duties
based on her extensive experience within the city over the past three
decades.
        The conversation turned to matters of interest to the
Armenian-American community, among them the establishment of the Armenian
American Museum in Glendale. The Prelate expressed appreciation for the
city's support of the project. In a fitting coincidence, the project's stage
one plans were submitted to the city earlier in the day. His Eminence wished
the new City Manager success in her new post and Mrs. Beers expressed her
thanks and appreciation for the warm welcome and well wishes. 
        
***
CHAMLIAN 8TH GRADE CLASS VISITS THE PRELACY PRIOR TO PILGRIMAGE TO ARMENIA
        On Thursday, , the 8th grade class of Vahan and Anoush
Chamlian School visited the Prelacy to receive the blessings of H.E.
Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, prior to embarking on their
pilgrimage to Armenia. The sixty-two students were accompanied by Dr. Talin
Kargodorian, Principal, Mrs. Rita Kaprielian, Vice-Principal, Armenian
teachers and a group of parents. 
        The visit began with prayer at the "St. Dertad and St. Ashkhen"
Chapel conducted by the Prelate, who was joined by Very Rev. Fr. Torkom
Donoyan, Vicar General, and Archpriest Fr. Nareg Pehlivanian, and continued
at "Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian" Hall.
        Two students, Eric Tovmassian and Nayiri Kalindjian, who served as
the MC's, thanked the Prelate for the warm welcome and introduced the
program. Following a group recitation, Natalie Harutunian explained the
purpose of their visit and expressed how fortunate the class feels to be
going on a pilgrimage to Armenia on the 100th anniversary of the First
Republic, the 30th anniversary of the Artsakh liberation movement, and the
2800th anniversary of Yerevan. On behalf of her peers, she promised that
they would take in all the history Armenia has to offer, visit important
pilgrimage sites, and always remain faithful to our language, traditions,
and heritage. Musical and dance performances followed, and four students
shared their expectations regarding their upcoming trip, anticipating a mix
of emotions and returning strengthened in their national identity. 
        The Prelate commended the students' patriotic sentiments and their
enthusiasm at visiting our ancestral lands. His Eminence reminded them of
the Primate of Artsakh's invitation for them to visit Artsakh, and hoped
that they will have the chance to see Artsakh as well, if not during this
trip then in the future. Referencing the hymn titled "Light" that was sung
in the Chapel earlier, the Prelate wished that the hearts and minds of the
students be illuminated with God's Light in Armenia and enlightened with our
rich history and heritage. He invited them to pray while in Armenia for God
to increase their faith, wisdom, and nationalism. Noting that the feast of
St. Gregory the Illuminator's descent into the pit was forthcoming, the
Prelate told the students to remember when they visit Khor Virab how St.
Gregory survived in the pit for thirteen years by trusting in God and
seeking His Light, and later spread His Light throughout Armenia. He
concluded by wishing them a meaningful and enriching pilgrimage, and blessed
them and principal, administration, faculty.  The program came to a close
with Cilicia and the Armenian national anthem. 
***
INTERSCHOOL RECITATION CONTEST AWARDS CEREMONY HELD AT THE PRELACY
        On Tuesday, March 13, 2018, the awards ceremony for the fifth
Interschool Recitation Contest was held at the Prelacy "Dikran and Zarouhie
Der Ghazarian" Hall presided by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate. The contest was held on Saturday, February 24, with the
participation of over sixty students from eight Armenian schools. Attending
the awards ceremony were Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian, Archpriest Fr. Nareg
Pehlivanian, Executive Council members Mr. Antranik Kasbarian, Dr. Kaloust
Agopian, and Mr. Alec Baghdasaryan, Board of Regents Chair Mrs. Lisa
Gaboudian and members, judging panel, principals, teachers, judging panel,
the fourteen winnings students and their families.  
        The program began with the Lord's Prayer. In her welcoming remarks,
Mrs. Gaboudian spoke of the recitation contest as a way to highlight the
unique mission of Armenian Schools and stated that witnessing the
performances fills our collective hearts and souls with pride and joy.  As
this year's contest was dedicated to the centennial of the first Republic of
Armenia, Mrs. Gaboudian noted that the students' performances were a
powerful testament to the fact that Armenia lives inside their hearts, and
thanked the parents and teachers for the instruction they are providing to
our youth.
        Mrs. Lena Kortoshian, Board of Regents member and MC, thanked the
members of the judging panel, Grigor Ogaryan, Takouhi Arzoumanian, Sayat
Baboumian, Kevork Bedikian, and Maral Varjabedian for their input, as well
as Mr. Mihran Toumajan for his hard work. Next, the winners were invited to
the stage group by group to receive their awards and mementos, while the
first place winners also recited their winning piece. The winners were: In
the elementary division, Lorig Artinian (Mesrobian School) won 1st place,
Lim Kalemkerian (Sahag-Mesrob) and Hrag Khacherian (Chamlian) won 2nd place,
and Katherine Bosnoian (Pilibos), Emily Arabian (Sahag-Mesrob), Sophie
Hagopian (Pilibos), and Arpi Aivazian (Ari Guiragos Minassian) were in 3rd
place. In the junior high division, Alik Artinian (Mesrobian) won 1st place,
Erik Markarian (Chamlian) 2nd place, and Diana Navasartian (Pilibos) and
Karni Balian (Ferrahian) 3rd place. And in the high school division, Areni
Chalekian (Pilibos) placed 1st, Sarine Sarjian (Mesrobian) 2nd, and Alex
Kassamanian (Ferrahian) 3rd. 
        Judging panel members Mr. Kevork Bedikian and Mrs. Takouhi
Arzoumanian delivered their message highlighting the importance of this
contest as a way of familiarizing our youth with the treasures of Armenian
literature and bonding them with our heritage. They stated that though there
are 14 winners, the judging panels deems all of the participants as winners,
and thanked the Prelate, Executive Council, teachers, and parents for their
collective care and instruction of our youth. Mr. Toumajan also thanked all
those who make this annual contest possible and gave information on the
pan-Armenian poetry festival held in Shushi each summer for the past seven
years by the initiative of Mr. Alec Baghdasaryan, in which the Prelacy has
participated the past five years, urging the students to participate. 
        Prior to inviting the Prelate for his message, Mrs. Gaboudian
thanked Board of Regents staff members Khajag Jamgotchian and Alina
Sarkissian for their contributions to the event's success. 
        His Eminence expressed pride and joy that the event not only
continues but grows year after year, and commended Mr. Baghdasaryan, the
Board of Regents, judging panel, teachers, parents, and participants for
their hard work, efforts, and sacrifices. Addressing the students, he urged
them to uphold and promote our language and cultural treasures and also
invited them to participate in the Shushi festival where last year a student
from our Prelacy Schools, Varant Chalekian, placed an impressive second. The
Prelate noted that earlier in the day, he and the Primate of Artsakh had
visited Chamlian School where award winner Eric Markarian had recited poetry
and the Primate had invited the students to visit Artsakh. His Eminence
concluded by blessing the students, stating that the souls of our immortal
poets are no doubt beaming with joy at their performances dedicated to the
100th anniversary of the first Republic of Armenia. 
        The program concluded with the benediction by the Prelate followed
by Cilicia and the Armenian national anthem, after which guests enjoyed a
reception hosted by the Board of Regents. 
***
PRIMATE OF ARTSAKH AND PRELATE VISIT CHAMLIAN AND TUFENKIAN SCHOOLS
        On Tuesday, March 13, and Wednesday, March 14, 2018 respectively,
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and H.E. Archbishop Barkev
Martirosyan, Primate of Artsakh, paid a visit to Vahan and Anoush Chamlian
and Richard Tufenkian Schools, joined by Very Rev. Fr. Torkom Donoyan, Vicar
General, and an accompanying delegation.
        At Chamlian School, the delegation was greeted by Principal Dr.
Talin Kargodorian, Vice-Principal Mrs. Rita Kaprielian, and teachers, and
led to "Hacop and Hilda Baghdassarian" Gym where 7th and 8th grade students
had gathered. Armenian language teacher Mr. Vahan Mehrabian welcomed the
delegation, briefly went over the school's national endeavors, and
introduced the Primate to the students, who then presented a program of
recitations.
        Dr. Kargodorian in her remarks stressed that Artsakh has and always
will be an inseparable part of Armenia. The Prelate and Primate spoke on
this year's milestone anniversaries. On the 100th anniversary of the first
Republic of Armenia, the Prelate urged the students to live and serve in the
spirit of our forefathers so that we can one day attain our ultimate goals.
The Primate stated that Artsakh is undergoing advancements and become
stronger year by year, and stressed that the people remain hopeful and
continue to fight for their rights even in difficult circumstances, and
concluded by expressing his wish for the 8th grade students to visit Artsakh
this year when they are in Armenia.
        On Wednesday, the Prelate and Primate, joined by Archpriest Fr.
Vazken Atmajian and accompanying delegation visited Richard Tufenkian
Pre-School, where they were greeted by Director Mrs. Arsine Aghazarian,
benefactor Mrs. Savey Tufenkian, and teachers. A brief program took place,
during which Mrs. Aghazarian delivered welcoming remarks and the students
sang nationalistic songs. The Prelate stated to the students that the
Primate had come from beautiful Artsakh to convey the greetings of their
fellow students to them, while the Primate blessed the students and hoped
that the spirit of the Artsakh liberation movement endure in their hearts
and souls. 
***
PRIMATE OF ARTSAKH VISITS WESTERN PRELACY AHEAD OF ARTSAKH LIBERATION
MOVEMENT 30TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATION
        On Tuesday, March 13, 2018, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, welcomed to the Prelacy H.E. Archbishop Barkev Martirosyan, Primate
of Artsakh, who was in town to participate in the 30th anniversary
commemoration of the Artsakh liberation movement. The Primate was
accompanied by members of the 30th anniversary committee, while the Prelate
was joined by Very Rev. Fr. Torkom Donoyan, Vicar General, Archpriest Fr.
Nareg Pehlivanian, Rev. Fr. Movses Shannakian, and members of the Prelacy
Ladies Auxiliary.
        The visit began with prayer at the "St. Dertad and St. Ashkhen"
Chapel, and followed at the "Sulahian" reception room. The Prelate welcomed
the Primate and thanked God for the opportunity to collectively mark the
30th anniversary of the Artsakh liberation movement, a movement which he
stated was the continuation and renewal of our centuries-long struggle and
demand for our rights, and in which the Primate was an important figure from
the onset. The Prelate expressed contentment that the Primate will have the
opportunity to visit Prelacy Schools during his stay, and will be the
featured speaker at the 30th anniversary commemoration, and in conclusion
thanked the organizing committee for their efforts.
        The Primate expressed thanks for the warm welcome and for the
opportunity to meet with his fellow clergymen and lay representatives at the
Prelacy, which he regarded as home. He spoke of the long history of the
Artsakh liberation movement, a struggle for justice and national rights
which began sometime in the 18th century. "It is a long and hard struggle,
but we will continue boldly and we will achieve our goals through united
efforts," stressed the Primate, who also spoke of the importance of having
the youth involved in such commemorations, instructing them with our
national values and continually reminding them of our struggle for they are
our future. In conclusion, the Primate thanked the Armenian community of
California and the organizers who have created a little Armenia in the
Diaspora.
        During the ensuing discussion, the Primate gave further information
about ongoing irrigation projects in Artsakh while organizing committee
member Mr. Harout Manoukian announced that a fundraising initiative will be
held on this occasion to provide thirty greenhouses to the families of
martyrs and injured soldiers. 
*** 
EPISCOPAL DIVINE LITURGY AND BLESSING OF MADAGH ON THE NAME-DAY OF FORTY
MARTYRS CHURCH OF ORANGE COUNTY
        On Sunday, March 11, 2018, the Feast of the Forty Martyrs and the
name-day of Forty Martyrs Church of Orange County was celebrated with
Episcopal Divine Liturgy and the blessing of madagh by H.E. Archbishop
Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate. Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian, Parish Pastor,
assisted at the altar.
          In the first portion of his sermon, the Prelate highlighted the
extraordinary faith, courage, conviction, and ultimate martyrdom of the
forty martyrs, how they managed to stay strong and unshaken in their faith
and prayers from the battlefields to their imprisonment, torture, and until
the moment of their death in the freezing lake. His Eminence stressed that
the young soldiers were first and foremost soldiers of God who placed their
fate and faith in the hands of God and trusted in His will and promise of
everlasting life, and expressed hope that we all become strengthened in our
faith by their example.
        Next, the Prelate turned to the analogous message of the fifth
Sunday of Great Lent, the Sunday of the Unjust Judge, which also highlights
the power of faith and prayer through the Parable of the Persistent Widow.
His Eminence emphasized the importance of faith and prayer for the mind,
body, and soul, stating, "if we are to learn anything from today's
commemoration of the forty martyrs and from the day's Gospel reading, it is
that we must not become despondent no matter what the circumstances; rather,
we must persevere in our faith and prayers; in the words of the Apostle Paul
we must "pray without ceasing," trusting that the Lord will provide
according to His will and in His timing." 
        The Prelate congratulated the parish on its name-day celebration and
encouraged the leadership and members to carry on their service for the
glory of God and for the advancement of the parish community with faith,
prayer, brotherly love, goodwill, and humility.
        During the service, Fr. Karekin expressed gratitude to the Prelate
on behalf of the parish family and thanked all those who contributed to the
day's commemoration.
        At the conclusion of requiem service, the Prelate was led in a
procession to "Gugasian" Hall to bless the madagh, which this year was
sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Bedig and Maro Fermanian. The madagh blessing
ceremony concluded with Cilicia and the Armenian national anthem.
        Afterward, the parish family enjoyed a luncheon together. Fr.
Karekin once again thanked the Prelate for conducting and presiding over the
day's special services, and thanked the members of the Ladies Guild and
altar servers for their devoted service. On this occasion, the Pastor and
Board of Trustees had appealed to the Prelate to honor three long-serving
deacons, Vartkes Dishoian, Zareh Sarkissian, and Avedis Dishoian. His
Eminence, joined by Fr. Karekin and Board of Trustees Chair Mr. Herair
Jermakian, presented plaques of commendation to the three honorees,
commending their many years of devoted service to the Armenian Apostolic
Church and in particular to Forty Martyrs Church, and commended also all of
the volunteers who serve in different capacities for the advancement of the
parish community.
***
PILIBOS SCHOOL CELEBRATES 48TH ANNIVERSARY
        On Friday, March 9, 2018, Rose and Alex Pilibos School celebrated
its 48th anniversary with a banquet held at Vertigo Event Venue in Glendale.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, attended and conveyed his
congratulatory message. He was accompanied by Archpriest Fr. Vicken
Vassilian and Executive Council member Mr. Antranik Kasbarian. In attendance
were Congressman Adam Schiff, Board of Regents and School Board members,
benefactors, sponsors, members and supporters of the school.
        The program featured remarks by Mr. Raffi Hamparian, who served as
the Master of Ceremonies, Mrs. Shogher Chorbajian on behalf of the
organizing committee, Congressman Adam Schiff, and Dr. Alina Dorian,
Principal, as well as a documentary on the school's history.
        The Prelate focused his message on the evening's theme of "Leading
Together," stating that the united efforts and support of sponsors and
friends has led the school to new heights and the resolve and dedication of
the administration and faculty has led the school to a new level.
Referencing the quote that "Education is beautification of the inner world
and the outer world," the Prelate commended the school family for
beautifying the minds, hearts, and souls of our youth, which in turn will
beautify our society and nation. 
***
LENTEN VIGIL SERVICE AT THE ARMENIAN ECCLESIASTICAL BROTHERHOOD
        On Friday, March 9, 2018, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, accompanied by Very Rev. Fr. Torkom Donoyan, Vicar General,
Archpriest Fr. Nareg Pehlivanian, Archpriest Fr. Vazken Atmajian, and Rev.
Fr. Movses Shannakian, visited the Armenian Ecclesiastical Brotherhood
center where he conducted Great Lent vigil service and conveyed his
blessings to the members.
        Prior to the service, requiem prayers were offered for all departed
Brotherhood members, and in particular for Kevork Megerdichian on the
one-year anniversary of his passing. The vigil service followed. Brotherhood
members participated in the service and recited the prayer "I confess with
faith."
        Brotherhood Chairman Avo Kabakjouzian delivered welcoming remarks
and thanked the Prelate for his years of support and care. Fr. Movses
Shannakian delivered the spiritual meditation on Great Lent, stating that
all faithful must be aware that if even if we are living as the prodigal
son, the Lord, as our loving and merciful Lord, is waiting for us to repent
and to welcome us back home with open arms. And when we are faced with
temptation and hardship, let us use our struggles to become stronger in our
faith and draw closer to God. 
        The Prelate blessed and commended the Brotherhood members for their
God-pleasing service and their allegiance to the Armenian Church, and urged
all to make use of Great Lent as a time for spiritual renewal,
self-examination and self-correction, and prayer ahead of the glorious
Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
        Afterward, the clergy were hosted to a Lenten dinner, during which
words of appreciation and commendation were expressed. 
***
PROF. RICHARD HOVANNISIAN'S ARMENIAN GENOCIDE ORAL HISTORY COLLECTION
INTEGRATED IN USC SHOAH FOUNDATION ARCHIVES
        On Friday, March 9, 2018, a special ceremony was held at USC during
which Prof. Richard Hovannisian's Armenian Genocide oral history collection
became a part of the Shoah Foundation's visual history archive. It is the
first audio collection and the largest collection of Armenian Genocide
survivor testimony to be integrated for research and education worldwide.
        H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, attended and
conveyed his blessings and congratulations to Prof. Hovannisian.
***

                                        Friday, 
Opposition Seeks Total Ban On Electioneering By Teachers, Doctors
• Ruzanna Stepanian
Armenia - Children wave the ruling Republican Party's flags at an election 
campaign rally in Aragatsotn province, 20Mar2017.
An opposition lawmaker has claimed that a new government-proposed legislative 
amendment limiting the ability of educational and medical workers to campaign 
for a candidate during elections still leaves room for foul play.
For years workers at public schools, kindergartens and state-run health 
institutions in Armenia have been regarded as key agents of influence for the 
government during elections.
In the run-up to last year’s parliamentary elections a local civic group said 
its activists posing as representatives of the ruling Republican Party of 
Armenia (HHK) had telephoned 136 schools and kindergarten chiefs across 
Armenia, learning that 114 of them had drawn up lists of children’s parents as 
well as schoolteachers and kindergarten staff who pledged to vote for the HHK.
The Union of Informed Citizens (UIC) said the lists were submitted to local 
government bodies or HHK campaign offices and also publicized audio of those 
phone conversations.
The HHK admitted that many school principals participated in its election 
campaign. But it claimed that they did so “beyond their work hours and work 
duties.” The party headed by President Serzh Sarkisian also denied that they 
illegally pressurized their staffs and children’s parents.
While the authorities failed to act upon the information reported by the civic 
group, 30 school principals filed a libel suit against the UIT and one of its 
leaders, Daniel Ioannisian, demanding a formal apology and some $125,000 in 
damages for the information which they said compromised their “honor and 
dignity.” Eventually, they dropped their lawsuits that drew strong criticism 
from the Armenian opposition and civil society, but were defended by the HHK.
Armenia’s election law totally prohibits judges, employees of law-enforcement 
agencies and servicemen from campaigning during elections. Amendments sought by 
the government also prohibit healthcare workers, teaching staffs at 
universities, schools and kindergartens as well as civil servants from 
campaigning during their working hours or in their professional capacity.
During a debate on the relevant Election Code amendments at the parliamentary 
standing committee on state and legal issues on Thursday MP Gevork Petrosian 
from the opposition Tsarukian faction expressed his concern that the measure 
will not solve the matter, calling for a total ban on election campaigning by 
school principals and teachers and healthcare workers.
“If adopted in its current form the Election Code will leave room for the 
all-out use of teaching staffs in electoral processes allegedly outside working 
hours,” Petrosian claimed.
Deputy Justice Minister Artur Hovannisian, who participated in the debate from 
the government, explained that totally preventing teachers and doctors from 
campaigning during elections will restrict their constitutional rights. “This 
would limit their basic rights enshrined in the Constitution, and we can’t do 
that,” the official said.
Gevork Kostanian, the head of the committee, further argued that prohibiting 
teachers and doctors from campaigning for candidates in their professional 
capacity should dispel the opposition concerns. “In other words, teachers or 
health workers cannot phone children’s parents or their patients in their 
professional capacity and ask them for something [related to elections] because 
they won’t have any grounds for that. They may do so only if they are, for 
example, friends,” he said.
The amendments were eventually endorsed by the committee dominated by the HHK 
and were included in the parliament agenda. The bill in question also suggests 
criminalizing the use of administrative resources during elections, making it 
punishable by imprisonment for 3-5 years. Amendments to the Electoral Code also 
provide for criminal liability for mediation in vote buying, which will be 
punishable by imprisonment for 1-5 years.
Opposition Alliance Divided Over Anti-Sarkisian Protests
• Astghik Bedevian
• Karlen Aslanian
• Sisak Gabrielian
Armenia - Leaders of the opposition Yelk alliance hold ling an anti-government 
rally in Yerevan, 19Jan2018.
Representatives of a three-party opposition alliance represented in parliament 
have downplayed the threat to their unity despite differences over tactics of 
opposing outgoing President Serzh Sarkisian’s perceived intention to stay in 
power.
Nikol Pashinian, the leader of one of the Yelk alliance’s member parties, Civil 
Contract, insists that street protests are needed to thwart Sarkisian’s 
becoming Armenia’s next prime minister, which will be the top policymaking post 
in the country after a 2015 constitutional reform is fully enacted in April.
Civil Contract has officially reserved Liberty Square, the traditional venue 
for political protests in the Armenian capital of Yerevan, for April 1-3. The 
Pashinian-led party reportedly presented a “roadmap” for action to other Yelk 
allies – the Bright Armenia and Hanrapetutiun (Republic) parties, which, 
however, did not endorse it.
“The majority of the alliance sees concerns regarding this roadmap and current 
discussions are about dispelling these concerns, because all parties in the 
alliance agree that there is no taking the public to another defeat and 
disillusionment,” Gevorg Gorgisian, a lawmaker representing Bright Armenia, 
said.
Earlier, publications in the media suggested that Bright Armenia and 
Hanrapetutiun were more inclined to oppose Sarkisian in parliament by means of 
fielding their own candidate for prime minister. Pashinian, who leads Yelk’s 
nine-member faction in parliament, has even been named among possible 
candidates for prime minister.
Meanwhile, Gorgisian did not rule out a situation in which Civil Contract will 
stage rallies independently from the rest of Yelk. “That, however, would not be 
the best solution,” the opposition lawmaker said.
Pashinian stated that Sarkisian’s remaining in power was unacceptable to him. 
“I can’t just do nothing and watch Sarkisian extending his rule,” he said.
Earlier, however, Edmon Marukian, the leader of Bright Armenia, said that 
people missed the chance to struggle against Sarkisian when they overwhelmingly 
voted for the governing party in last year’s parliamentary elections that the 
opposition claims was marred by large-scale vote buying and use of 
administrative resources.
Despite the current situation within their alliance, Yelk’s representatives 
have sought to downplay the threat that differences over how to oppose 
Sarkisian pose to their unity.
Political analyst Armen Grigorian believes, however, that if Yelk has 
differences over the “top political issue” of Armenia, which is President 
Sarkisian’s continued stay in power, “it is difficult to imagine how in the 
future they will be able to work together.”
“They may have a consensus on secondary issues, but if they differ over the top 
political issue, it is difficult to consider Yelk as a united political group,” 
Grigorian told RFE/RL’s Armenian service (Azatutyun.am).
Commenting on the situation inside Yelk late on Thursday, deputy parliament 
speaker and spokesman for the ruling Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) Eduard 
Sharmazanov emphasized that it was the opposition alliance’s “internal matter”.
“But speaking generally, political processes should be taking place inside the 
parliament. Last year’s parliamentary elections showed that there was no 
[public] discontent in Armenia for post-election rallies,” Sharmazanov said.
Before launching constitutional reforms in 2014 President Sarkisian, who is the 
leader of the HHK, pledged not to seek a top government post if Armenia 
eventually switched to a parliamentary form of government. He himself has not 
yet spoken about his plans after the expiry of his current office on April 9, 
but senior representatives of the HHK, including Sharmazanov, have repeatedly 
expressed their “personal view” that Sarkisian is the best candidate the ruling 
party has for the country’s next prime minister.
Together with its junior coalition partner, Dashnaktsutyun, the HHK controls 65 
seats in the 105-member National Assembly and can easily install its candidate 
as prime minister during a vote expected to be held on April 17.
‘Not Nice’ Of Armenia To Annul Normalization Protocols, Says Turkey
Switzerland -- Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu (2ndR) and his Armenian 
counterpart Eduard Nalbandian (2nd L) shake hands as they hold signed documents 
after a signing ceremony, Zurich, 10Oct2009
It was “not nice” of Yerevan to annul diplomatic protocols that would normalize 
its relations with Ankara, a senior Turkish official said on a trip to Baku on 
Friday as reported by an Azerbaijani news agency.
In the first official public reaction of Ankara to Yerevan’s move Turkey’s 
Deputy Foreign Minister Ahmet Yildiz again linked the implementation of the 
agreements, which were never ratified by parliaments in either country, to the 
resolution of the protracted Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over 
Nagorno-Karabakh.
The Turkish-Armenian accords envisaging the establishment of diplomatic 
relations and opening of the border between the two countries was signed 
through the mediation of Switzerland in Zurich in late 2009. The United States 
and Russia supported Yerevan and Ankara in their endeavor to normalize 
historically strained relations.
In negotiating the deal Armenia insisted that its implementation should not be 
conditioned on other issues. After its signing, however, Turkey repeatedly 
linked it with progress in Armenia’s negotiations with its regional ally, 
Azerbaijan, regarding the settlement of the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.
Citing Ankara’s continuing refusal to implement the normalization protocols 
unconditionally, Armenia formally annulled the agreements on March 1.
“Although the Zurich protocols between Turkey and Armenia had not been enacted, 
it was not nice of the Armenian side to take a decision to annul them,” said 
Yildiz, who attended an international forum hosted in Baku.
Azerbaijani news agency APA quoted the Turkish diplomat as claiming that 
Yerevan benefited more from the protocols than Ankara. “It is their decision. 
All the same they have demonstrated their unwillingness to settle the 
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict over all these years. This way they once again 
demonstrate the same position. What we do expect from them above all is their 
withdrawal from the Azerbaijani land. This was the key to resolving this 
conflict. But they did not want it,” Yildiz added.
During a news briefing in Yerevan on Thursday Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister 
Shavarsh Kocharian confirmed that the decision to annul the protocols was 
properly communicated to Turkey and reiterated that “the Armenian side is ready 
to conduct negotiations aimed at normalizing relations without preconditions.” 
“We have not received any offer from the Turkish side in that direction,” the 
senior Armenian diplomat said.
Armenian Opposition Group Marks Activist’s Death Anniversary
Opposition activist David Sanasarian addresses a rally of the Front for the 
State of Armenia in Liberty Square, Yerevan 16Mar 2018
Several hundred supporters of a nascent Armenian opposition group held a rally 
in Yerevan on Friday that was largely devoted to the one-year death anniversary 
of an activist jailed for aiding a group of pro-opposition gunmen during their 
standoff with security forces two years ago.
Artur Sargsian broke a police cordon on his car to deliver food to members of a 
radical opposition group, Sasna Tsrer, that seized and held for more than two 
weeks a police compound in Yerevan in July 2016. Sargsian, a 1992-1994 Karabakh 
war veteran who had a number of chronic conditions, was jailed along with 
dozens of the pro-opposition gunmenafter their surrender to security forces and 
died shortly after being released from pretrial detention on bail the following 
year.
An opposition supporter holding a portrait of Artur Sargsian during a march 
organized by the Front for the State of Armenia movement in Yerevan on the 
activist’s one-year death anniversary, 16Mar 2018
​Speakers at the rally organized in Liberty Square by the Front for the State 
for Armenia (FSA) paid tribute to the memory of the man, who had earned the 
popular nickname “Food Bringer” for his act.
They also criticized the government and outgoing President Serzh Sarkisian, 
calling for a combined effort to stop him from staying in power as prime 
minister after he completes his second and final term next month.
Activist David Sanasarian called on opposition Yerkir Tsirani party leader 
Zaruhi Postanjian and one of the leaders of the parliamentary opposition Yelk 
alliance Nikol Pashinian, two of the most outspoken government critics, to join 
hands in pushing for a change of power in Armenia.
“We all have differences over various matters. But I am confident that we all 
will prove as mature as to leave aside all our differences and show our unity 
to the people,” Sanasarian said. “Let’s form a common agenda.”
Speaking to RFE/RL’s Armenian service (Azatutyun.am) earlier on Friday, one of 
the FSA activists, leader of the opposition Zharangutiun (Heritage) party Armen 
Martirosian said that by not engaging in street protests Yelk will indirectly 
support Sarkisian.
“If there is no unified opposition, the public will certainly not join the 
struggle,” Martirosian stressed.
While Pashinian and his Civil Contract party are in favor of staging street 
protests and have even reserved Liberty Square for April 1-3 for possible 
rallies, the two other members of the alliance – the Bright Armenia and 
Hanrapetutiun (Republic) parties – do not consider street protests to be an 
effective means of struggle and are more inclined to oppose Sarkisian’s 
possible election as prime minister inside the parliament.
The FSA, which is trying to drum up popular support in its anti-government 
push, said it will hold its next rally in a week. The movement has also 
announced that it will hold “periodical” rallies during the week commencing on 
April 9, when President Sarkisian’s powers will end and parliamentary factions 
will have seven days to name their candidates for the post of prime minister.
Under Armenia’s reformed Constitution that will be fully enacted in April, it 
is the prime minister who will wield real power in the country.
Press Review
“Hraparak” considers it unfair to blame ordinary people for their losing faith 
in everything “while there is so much hypocrisy in politics”. “Some politicians 
speak about unity and consolidation, but when they are asked why they 
themselves don’t unite to fight for something in a consolidated manner they 
dismiss everyone as corrupt. Others complain about the government, but when the 
moment for a real fight comes, they follow the street protests in front of 
their computer monitors. Still others criticize political parties for not being 
consistent, but they themselves have a record of changing several parties and 
ending up in some government position. It is no wonder that people just can’t 
make head or tail amidst so many lies,” the daily comments.
“Zhoghovurd” observes that Armenia’s isolation from major regional integration 
projects continues. It reports that a meeting of the foreign ministers of 
Turkey, Azerbaijan, Iran and Georgia took place yesterday and the main subject 
for discussion at that meeting was the possibility of creating a south-west 
transport corridor. “As a result of this cooperation Armenia’s isolation will 
be getting deeper and economic projects will bypass our country with all 
ensuing negative consequences. And it is not clear what Armenia can do about it 
besides smearing its neighbors, participating in the Russian-led trade bloc and 
telling tall tales about cooperation with the European Union,” the paper claims.
“Chorrord Ishkhanutyun” suggests that “while political cynicism has always been 
typical of Armenia’s authorities, in the past they at least tried to create an 
illusion that they stick to the rules of appropriateness.” “Now they even 
dispense with these formalities. The mechanism of elections has been ruined 
completely and maintaining the rules of external appropriateness becomes 
pointless,” the daily writes.
“Haykakan Zhamanak” writes: “Members of the ruling Republican Party of Armenia 
(HHK) still do not disclose the name of their party’s candidate for the post of 
Armenia’s next prime minister, at the same time they keep stating that 
personally for them the most preferred candidate is [outgoing President] Serzh 
Sarkisian. In doing so, they cite various reasons, with some even saying that 
they may force Sarkisian to become prime minister against his will. Still, 
there is also a theory that the HHK and Sarkisian may offer a surprise at the 
last moment and name a different person for prime minister. This theory is less 
popular and only few possible candidates are mentioned in this unlikely 
scenario. The main one is current Defense Minister Vigen Sargsian.”
(Lilit Harutiunian)
Reprinted on ANN/Armenian News with permission from RFE/RL
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