Naturally, a separate and in-depth analysis is needed to understand why a particular citizen voted for a given party or alliance in the recent election. It is impossible to generalize by saying that “half a million people voted for the government for this reason, while another half a million voted for the opposition for that reason.” Such an approach would, in my view, be unscientific, because voters’ motivations are far more nuanced and diverse.
Therefore, I can speak only for myself, while assuming that there are others who think as I do.
I voted for the opposition not because any of the political forces participating in these elections had brilliant programs capable of delivering happiness and prosperity to everyone. I believe that over the past eight years, Pashinyan has brought our country to a point where there are no ideal solutions—whether in relations with our neighbors, the Russia–EU dilemma, nor when it comes to TRIPP (the “Crossroads of Peace” initiative)
I voted for the opposition for one reason only: I expected them—and still hope—that they will remove Pashinyan from power. If the opposition is unable to do so, that is unfortunate. If I have to spend another five years listening to hysterical shrieking laced with falsehoods, that is simply terrifying. Because, accompanied by that shrieking, we will almost certainly become a de facto “Western Azerbaijan” within five years.
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To understand that this is not the stuff of fantasy, we need only ask ourselves a simple question: Could we have imagined eight years ago that Artsakh would cease to exist, that Azerbaijani troops would be stationed on Armenia’s sovereign territory, and that Aliyev would be instructing Pashinyan on what kind of majority he should form in Armenia’s parliament?
Thus, I have a very clear expectation of the opposition. But as for how those expectations should be fulfilled, I cannot assume the role of a mentor. Should they take up their parliamentary mandates or refuse them? Should they bring their supporters into the streets or refrain from doing so? Should they challenge the election results in the Constitutional Court, even knowing that it is in Pashinyan’s pocket, or not challenge them at all?
I do not consider it my place to offer advice on such matters. That is the responsibility of political forces themselves.
Aram ABRAHAMYAN
