The Armenian National Congress (ANC) has issued a statement condemning the nationalization of the Electric Networks of Armenia (HEC), declaring the process “blatantly illegal.”

The ANC called on law enforcement and the judiciary to urgently review the nationalization process and ensure protection of property rights.

“The Armenian National Congress strongly condemns the nationalization of the Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA) by the government of Armenia. This process gravely violates property rights, undermines the rule of law, and represents an overt act of political repression,” the statement reads.

The ANC argues that the takeover is being carried out without negotiation with the owners, without fair compensation, and in violation of legal procedures. It specifically cites Article 60 of the Armenian Constitution, which guarantees the inviolability of property.

According to the ANC, recent legislative amendments passed by the authorities contradict international legal norms, including the Armenia–Russia agreement on investment protection. It warns that this move jeopardizes the legitimate interests of Tashir Holding, ENA’s parent company, and severely damages Armenia’s investment climate.

The ANC further criticizes the July 3 vote in parliament and the July 8 presidential assent to the legislation, calling the changes politically motivated. It claims the new law grants unconstitutional powers to the Public Services Regulatory Commission (PSRC) to appoint a “temporary manager,” lacks transparency, and fails to define fair compensation mechanisms.

The statement also condemns the PSRC’s authority to revoke licenses without objective proof of violations, calling it a pathway to arbitrary rule. It argues that the real reason behind the actions against Tashir’s owner, Samvel Karapetyan, is his support for the Armenian Apostolic Church, and that the charges stem from a lawful public statement.

The ANC urges:

• Law enforcement and the judiciary to immediately review the nationalization process and uphold property rights.
• Citizens and civil society to unite in defense of property rights, the rule of law, freedom of speech, and religious liberty.

The ANC concludes that the HEC nationalization harms Armenia’s economy and democracy, calling for an end to the process and restoration of justice.

Parliament unanimously adopted amendments to the laws “On the Public Services Regulatory Authority” and “On Energy,” enabling the nationalization. President Vahagn Khachaturyan signed the bills into law on July 8. The PSRC rejected ENAs proposal to revise its 2025 investment program.