Oskanian case unlinked to ex-FM’s pro-western stance, expert says

PanARMENIAN.Net - Stripping ex-Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian of deputy immunity has nothing to do with the latter’s pro-western orientation, a political analyst said.

As Richard Giragosian told a news conference in Yerevan, “the Oskanian case developments are linked to the country’s domestic policy, rather than relations with the U.S. and Russia.”

“I believe, the case is meant as the current leadership’s message to Prosperous Armenia party leader Gagik Tsarukyan and ex-president Robert Kocharian,” the expert said.

“With Oskanian having already acquired the status of a victim in the eyes of the public, the Prosecutor General has done the ex-minister a service, promoting him as a possible presidential candidate,” the expert said.

“The disappointing speech of the Prosecutor General in parliament proves the latter’s unawareness as to the specific nature of charges against Oskanian,” the expert said, characterizing Oskanian case as politicized.

Armenian National Assembly resolved October 2 to strip Prosperous Armenia member, former Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian of deputy immunity over Civilitas Foundation fund misuse charges.