Editor’s Note: The Armenian Youth Federation Western US Central Executive issued an announcement on Wednesday regarding the days-long protests taking place in Armenia in opposition to the Tuesday’s election of Serzh Sarkisian as Armenia’s prime minister. In the announcement, below, the AYF says, “Civic participation is essential to return power to the people and hold the government accountable.” Also on Wednesday, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation Western US Central Committee issued a statement on the same issue.
The Armenian Youth Federation Western United States (AYF-WUS) supports the right of every Armenian citizen to peacefully protest and express their views.
In the past week, thousands have taken to the streets of Yerevan, discontent with the state of affairs in the country, primarily the ascension of Serzh Sarkisian to the post of Prime Minister.
The AYF-WUS, alongside concerned Armenians throughout our communities, continues to monitor the developments with a watchful eye toward the protection of the rights of all Armenians. We express our concern about violent clashes between police and demonstrators and condemn the use of excessive force.
Historically, the AYF has organized protests and acts of civil disobedience as a means of political expression. We fully understand the importance and efficacy of such direct action to engage the masses in critical issues. We wholeheartedly endorse the right to exercise the freedom of speech, assembly, and dissent as cornerstones of all mature democracies.
It is our conviction that Armenia’s future lies in the hands of the indomitable and incorruptible spirit of its citizens. We believe the new constitution and transition to a parliamentary form of government will bring about fundamental institutional change. These reforms, if properly implemented, will address the failures of the prior political system. Civic participation is essential to return power to the people and hold the government accountable.
It is incumbent upon us to work hand-in-hand, across borders and across generations for the betterment of our homeland. Nation-building is an ongoing, laborious, and arduous task that requires steadfast principle and active engagement. We remain committed to this process undeterred.
who is oppressing those indomitable and incorruptible spirit of its citizens.( as you say ) ?
Difficult to see and tell to your reader
The coalition of AR party and Armenia dasshnak part
If you are patriotic and love your part , show “your step “
The ARF is now part and parcel of the corrupt oligarchy. They have succumbed to power and greed. They will once again be labeled as treasonous by those who are already Soviet indoctrinated anit-ARF.
The ARF voted for Serzh as PM. His third as President ( Now called Prime Minsiter).
You are part of this mess. You are part of this country not moving forward. You are in coalition with a party of oligarchs and thugs.
Total Bullshit!!! You guys have been part of the corrupted government for a while and people are old enough to remember how your leaders “Rustamyan and Margaryan” called out protesters hooligans.
ARF-Armenia will join the ranks of the Republican Party of Armenia and be sent to dustbins of history. Where is this >revolutionary, socialist< party when there is a need to join and lead the social revolution taking place right now in Armenia.
…as the saying goes the corrupt thrives with, and among, the corrupt.
better wake up ARF-Armenia from your long and disrespectful slumber!
When has any “leader” ruling for decades ever been good for the people? For democracy? Never. Same emperor with new clothing is not the answer. HE needs to go.