NSDU leader Paruyr Hayrikyan is convinced that there should be applications from the political forces for the Constitutional amendments, as well as discussions. “But, a couple of people decided and presented a concept paper.” According to him, the person and the citizen are the core of the Constitution, whereas the new amendments refer to the state system, where the person and the citizen have no room. “A country like France is refusing the president elected for the terms of four years, whereas in Armenia the position of the elected president is offered once and for the term of seven years. And most importantly, there has not seen an amendment that is made to expand or attribute the rights of the citizen. Armenia has declared itself a democratic republic and any reform should be aimed at enhancement of democracy. Now, the people are taking part in the presidential and parliamentary elections, but the amendments proposed by them spilt the democracy in 50%. The people’s participation is moved out replacing them with the neighborhood guys: Norki Blo, Sari Taghi Mko, Artashati Sko, who come together and intrude into the Parliament, and then spat, smoke and decide whom to vote for president for seven years, whom to put the prime minister. Isn’t it hooliganism? What about the people? With these amendments they are saying the people, het to you place and be thankful that we allow you to stir once in every five years.” Referring to the President’s statement that he is not intended to be re-elected or display a claim on the prime minister, Mr. Hayrikyan said, “You cannot be nominated. Why are you talking about it? You perpetuate the possibility of holding the power of bandits in their hands. For me, it makes no difference whether they are your bandits or someone else’s. The bandits are allies to each other no matter it is Robert, Serzh, or Levon, they are all from the same party. Everything is done as if there is no citizen.”
Aprine SIMONYAN
