Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has called on voters to support his vision for Armenia’s future as citizens head to the polls in a parliamentary election heavily influenced by peace negotiations with Azerbaijan and the country’s relationship with Russia
Armenians began voting on Sunday in a closely watched contest that could determine the direction of the government’s diplomatic efforts following the country’s military setbacks in recent years and its evolving foreign policy priorities.
Opinion surveys ahead of the election suggested Pashinyan’s ruling Civil Contract party was on course to secure the largest share of votes, while the opposition Strong Armenia party, which advocates closer ties with Moscow, emerged as its nearest challenger.
Since taking power in 2018, Pashinyan has worked to strengthen ties with Western allies while scaling back Armenia’s dependence on Russia, a policy change that has sparked debate at home and internationally
Supporters point to economic improvements during his tenure, with many crediting the government for significant growth and development. Speaking at a campaign event in Yerevan, several voters expressed optimism about the country’s progress under his leadership.
However, the prime minister continues to face criticism from political opponents and sections of the public who accuse him of making excessive concessions to Azerbaijan, particularly following the conflict that reshaped the regional landscape in 2023.
Central to Pashinyan’s campaign has been his pursuit of a lasting peace agreement with Azerbaijan, including a landmark accord signed in Washington last year aimed at ending decades of intermittent hostilities between the neighbouring states.
After casting his ballot in Yerevan, Pashinyan said a re-elected government would maintain balanced relations with both Russia and the European Union, emphasizing a foreign policy approach that protects Armenia’s national interests.
The opposition, led largely by pro-Russian groups, has argued for preserving stronger strategic links with Moscow. Among the most prominent figures is businessman Samvel Karapetyan, founder of the Strong Armenia party, who has advocated maintaining close cooperation with Russia.
Karapetyan, who remains under house arrest over allegations linked to calls for government overthrow claims he denies, also promoted a balanced diplomatic approach, saying Armenia should engage constructively with both East and West.
Many opposition supporters remain deeply affected by the loss of Nagorno-Karabakh, the ethnic Armenian-majority territory recaptured by Azerbaijan in 2023. Some voters say the events surrounding the conflict have reshaped their political choices and expectations for the country’s future.
Meanwhile, concerns over democratic freedoms have featured prominently in the campaign. Critics and rights advocates have questioned the government’s treatment of political rivals, citing the detention of several opposition figures in recent years.
Government officials have defended the actions, insisting law enforcement agencies are responding to individuals suspected of attempting to destabilize the state.
Voting stations opened early on Sunday and are scheduled to close in the evening, with approximately 2.48 million registered voters eligible to participate in the election.
Authorities also moved to reassure the public after reports circulated claiming explosive devices had been planted at polling centres. The Health Ministry said investigations found no evidence supporting the threats and urged citizens to disregard the messages.
Goodness Anunobi
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