Pashinyan Turns to Rivals as Political Pressure Mounts

Yerevan, Armenia — Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is shifting tactics in the face of growing skepticism about his policies aimed at transforming Armenian society. With public opinion polling indicating uncertainty among Armenians regarding his economic strategy, Pashinyan is now publicly targeting his main political rivals.

Pashinyan’s goals focus on stimulating individual initiative to drive economic development while promoting a new national identity. However, his attempts to finalize a peace treaty with Azerbaijan have stalled, complicating his efforts to implement these strategies. As parliamentary elections approach next year, the political climate is becoming increasingly charged.

On May 12, the government announced an initiative to recover assets from former president Robert Kocharyan and his family. Officials allege these assets, which include homes, vehicles, and cash, were obtained improperly. This move comes after Kocharyan emerged as a vocal critic of Pashinyan’s foreign policies.

Kocharyan warned, “If we continue on this path, we risk losing everything,” referring to strained relations with Azerbaijan and Armenia’s dependency on Russia. Pashinyan countered Kocharyan’s criticisms by inviting him and other former presidents, Serzh Sargsyan and Levon Ter-Petrosyan, to a live, televised debate on pressing national issues.

Pashinyan expressed confidence in his debate skills, suggesting he could easily dismantle his opponents’ arguments. “If you have something to say, let’s go and talk live. Stop saying something in dark corners,” he challenged during a parliamentary session. He further invited Kocharyan and the others to “collect your smart, stupid, wise and not very good thoughts and come” for the debate, emphasizing his readiness to engage directly.