Armenian Opposition Member Positions Himself as Voice for Politically Disengaged Armenians
In a press conference on November 26, Arman Tatoyan, the head of the Wings of Unity movement, unveiled his political agenda to represent Armenia’s politically apathetic majority. Tatoyan estimated that 60–70% of citizens remain politically inactive and expressed his ambition to "be their voice".
Tatoyan criticized the domestic political system as a closed loop dominated by Nikol Pashinyan on one side and former presidents on the other. He described Pashinyan’s rule as dependent on three pillars: former presidents, the church, and Russia. He argued that attempts by former presidents to return to power only strengthen Pashinyan’s position.
Tatoyan pledged to deepen relations with the United States, "a trusted partner," to adopt best practices in education, technology, defense, democracy, and the rule of law, while reducing dependence on any single country, particularly Russia. He identified three guiding principles: a strong state, strong security, and a just country. Tatoyan stated that security would be the top priority, promising to establish a commission on his first day in office to prepare a six-month security sector reform program. He proposed allocating 30–40% of Armenia’s 8% GDP defense budget to the military-industrial complex.
Tatoyan expressed readiness to sign a peace agreement with Azerbaijan, but only after ensuring compliance with existing agreements, refusing to amend Armenia’s Constitution at Baku’s request. He stated he would not discuss enclaves in negotiations. Tatoyan invited Prime Minister Pashinyan to a debate, offering him the choice of venue and questions for a January 15 discussion.
See Also
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