Armenia’s Human Rights Defender, Anahit Manasyan, expressed deep concern over the recent scuffle in the National Assembly, labeling it a collective disgrace.

Speaking to reporters, she emphasized the urgency of establishing a permanent ethics committee within the parliament to address such incidents.

“This is a disgrace for all of us,” Manasyan stated, as reported by Aravot.

When asked whether she equally condemns both ruling and opposition lawmakers involved, Manasyan clarified that she denounces such behavior regardless of political affiliation.

“I condemn this type of conduct in the National Assembly, whether from the political majority or the opposition. I consider the prompt formation of a permanent ethics committee in the parliament essential. Such a body would enable the resolution of numerous issues and have the authority to investigate such incidents. Currently, no entity is empowered to examine conduct and ethical violations or to provide definitive conclusions. Establishing such a body is of utmost importance,” she said.

Regarding whether she condemns Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s offensive remarks directed at a parliamentarian, Manasyan responded:

“We are not the competent body for such matters. If such incidents occur in the National Assembly, they are unacceptable to me as the Human Rights Defender. In Armenia, the Corruption Prevention Commission is the authorized body dealing with ethics and conduct of public officials. That commission is responsible for addressing these issues. I am not the competent authority to comment on specific violations of ethics and conduct rules by parliamentarians or officials,” she said.

When questioned about potential constraints in her statements, she replied:

“Naturally, I have none. There has never been an instance where I faced pressure or reprimand. Almost all the proposals I present and the views I express generally differ from those of my colleagues,” she noted.

Upon being asked again whether calling someone a “brute” constitutes a human rights violation, she added: “I have already answered that question. We can discuss the rest later.”

Commenting on the incident at the Merdzavan school, Manasyan stated: “Our concern is not to target anyone but to eliminate such phenomena. This is unequivocally unacceptable. While this case gained public attention, we also receive mandatory complaints regarding other incidents, which are equally unacceptable to us. Professional dignity must also be respected. We must ensure the best interests of children in all these situations.”

An altercation occurred in the National Assembly during Deputy Speaker Hakob Arshakyan’s speech, following remarks by Armenia faction MP Levon Kocharyan. The situation escalated, leading to Kocharyan leaving the session hall.