Sarkissian warns against crossing moral boundaries during campaigning

PanARMENIAN.Net - President Armen Sarkissian has warned political parties and blocs against escalating the situation in Armenia and "crossing the boundaries of morality", as they embark on election campaign ahead of snap parliamentary elections in the country on June 20.

"These elections are taking place in exceptionally complex, critical conditions, when our people and state are going through difficult trials," Sarkissian said on Monday, June 7.

"I appeal to all the parties and blocs running in elections to be as restrained as possible, to respect the electorate and the opponents as much as possible, to show prudence and tolerance, and to carry out the electoral process in an atmosphere of a civilized political culture."

Sarkissian urged the political forces against resorting to dishonest propaganda techniques and called for honoring the country's national values ​​and collective goal.

"Law enforcement agencies have a particularly heavy obligation. They must act with full responsibility and professionalism to guarantee the rule of law, and to ensure public order and a normal course of elections," the President said.

"I appeal to all voters to take an active part in the elections and express our attitude towards any political force or politician, realizing that we are making a choice for the future of our country, the prospects of development, and the welfare of our generations."

Acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced on March 18 that Armenia will hold snap parliamentary elections on June 20. The PM came under fire after signing a statement with the Russian and Azerbaijani Presidents to end the war in Nagorno-Karabakh almost 45 days after the start of the military hostilities. Under the deal, the Armenian side was forced to return all the seven regions surrounding Karabakh, having lost a part of Karabakh itself in hostilities.