October 25, 2011 - 12:33 AMT
Ex-PM: Prosperous Armenia doesn’t leave coalition fearing for business

Despite contradictions with the Republican Party of Armenia (RPA), Prosperous Armenia party doesn’t withdraw from the ruling coalition because of the fear to lose its business, according to former RA Prime Minister.

“There is no rule of law in Armenia,” Hrant Bagratyan told a news conference on October 25, reminding of the prosecution of MP and businessman Khachatur Sukiasyam, who once sided with the first Armenian President Levon Ter-Petrossian.

According to Hraparak newspaper, the recent gathering of the RPA executive body focused on further cooperation with Prosperous Armenia party. The newspaper said that some RPA members considered Prosperous Armenia leader Gagik Tsarukyan’s refusal to publicly announce support for Serzh Sargsyan’s candidacy at next presidential race to be unacceptable. Despite coalition memorandum signed, Tsarukyan spoke of the party’s intention to initiate a separate presidential campaign. RPA executive body gave Prosperous Armenia till next week to specify its position, expressing support for Sargsyan’s nomination.

Following the meeting, RPA members refused to reveal any detail, with the party spokesman Eduard Sharmazanov noting domestic situation as the theme of discussion held.