Armenian Parliament approves changes to Electoral Code
Arusyak Julakyan, a parliament member from the ruling Civil Contract faction, pointed out that one modification was introduced between the first and second readings.
YEREVAN, January 23. /ARКА/. During an extraordinary session on Friday, the National Assembly of Armenia passed amendments to the Electoral Code in its second and final reading.
Arusyak Julakyan, a parliament member from the ruling Civil Contract faction, pointed out that one modification was introduced between the first and second readings.
"The proposal includes changes and additions to the list of accredited observers, which must be finalized no later than three days before the elections. However, if the list is being supplemented by an individual without Armenian citizenship from a public organization or foundation registered in Armenia, this can occur up to 15 days before the elections," Dzhulakyan explained.
Previously, the MP remarked that the existing Electoral Code of Armenia lacks adequate and effective legal mechanisms to ensure political neutrality and impartiality.
"This legislative initiative is designed to fill that void, enhancing neutrality, transparency, and legal predictability in electoral processes. The urgency of adopting this draft law is underscored by the forthcoming electoral events and the heightened scrutiny from the public and international observers. This bill seeks to eradicate and prevent the operations of fraudulent observation organizations," Julakyan stressed.
In response, Artsvik Minasyan, secretary of the opposition Hayastan (Armenia) faction, criticized the bill as anti-state, anti-democratic, and illegal, labeling it another effort by the authorities to exert total control over electoral processes and legitimize election fraud. She also mentioned that her faction would abstain from participating in the discussions.
The parliamentary opposition chose to boycott the discussions.
On December 24, 2025, Vahagn Hovakimyan, Chairman of the Central Electoral Commission (CEC), announced that parliamentary elections in Armenia could be scheduled between June 2 and June 12, 2026, in accordance with the Constitution's provisions.-0-
