According to Hraparak daily, ruling Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) member Vardan Ghukasyan has been holding talks with other political forces requesting them to endorse him during Gyumri mayor race, due on September 9.

Rumors go that Prosperous Armenia representative Samvel Balasyan is also likely to run for mayor. He neither denied the reports, nor issued final confirmation. In case of Balasyan’s winning the race, Arman Sahakyan will become a parliamentary candidate instead of him.

Thus, a political barter between RPA and Prosperous Armenia constructive friends will take place. “If Balasyan is elected as Gyumri mayor, will he leave the party on the eve of the presidential elections?” the paper says.