Armenian Ombudsman Karen Andreasyan issued an official request to Yerevan Mayor over the recent transport fare hike.

In the document, the human rights defender questioned whether the Mayor actually signed and published a resolution to increase the transport price, noting the ruling to be illegal otherwise.

“If the transport companies had requested a fare hike, wouldn’t that necessitate a tender involving all companies, including those offering to leave the fare at AMD 100?” the document questions.

The Ombudsman further slammed the decision taken without the public involvement as unacceptable, also citing gross violation of law. He urged to make those who’ve violated the law accountable, with the citizens refunded for paying an extra sum for transport.

On Thursday, July 18 a 50% increase in public transport price was confirmed, with passengers to be charged AMD 150, up from AMD 100.

The increase fuelled rallies, with several car owners joining the protesters by offering free transportation. The activists are distributing leaflets urging against paying AMD 150, some are still paying AMD 100 in protest.