Armenia shows demand for a ‘third political force,’ Izvestia reports

Political tensions in Armenia are rising ahead of parliamentary elections. The opposition seeks to impeach the prime minister, accusing him of attacking the Church — allegations Nikol Pashinyan denies. Recently, however, the nephew of Catholicos Garegin II, Bishop Mkrtich Proshyan, was arrested. Moreover, on the night of Oct. 16, the detention of businessman Samvel Karapetyan — known for his ties to the Church — was extended.

According to Izvestia, experts note that neither the opposition nor the government currently enjoy sufficient public support.

“The opposition’s ratings in Armenia are low. This points to a systemic problem in the republic’s political life,” expert Dmitry Sidorov told Izvestia.

Given both Pashinyan’s low approval ratings and the opposition’s weak public backing, analysts believe there is now a growing demand for a “third political force” in Armenia. Recently, the “In Our Own Way” movement, associated with Karapetyan, has emerged in the country.

Sidorov says that amid escalating tensions between the government and the Church, and growing social discontent, Karapetyan could become a serious political player — though it is still too early to say. For now, the businessman’s movement should be seen as a sign of the Armenian public’s search for a new, more nationally oriented political force.