“Akanates” Reports on Possible Violations by “Hayakve” Observation Mission
Scandals surrounding the Vagharshapat elections are constantly increasing. This time, the “Akanates” (Witness) observer mission announces that the “Hayakve” observation mission, accredited by the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) on October 27, does not adhere to the principle of political neutrality.
It is reported that “Hayakve,” which includes the public organizations “Araratian Serund” (Ararat Generation) and “Yeritasardakan Akumbneri Dashnutyun” (Federation of Youth Clubs), had 78 observers as of November 9, which is about five times more than all other missions combined.
According to “Akanates,” after accreditation, “Hayakve” has been distributing messages and videos of a propaganda nature during the pre-election period, mainly against the “Civil Contract” party. The materials are published on the initiative’s Facebook and Telegram platforms.
The Electoral Code prohibits observer missions from supporting any political force or candidate. Article 32 of the Code obligates observers to be neutral and not to express a biased position toward the government or the opposition. Point 4.1 of Article 31 of the same Code allows the Central Electoral Commission to revoke accreditation in case of violation of these rules.
It should also be noted that “Hayakve” had also carried out active anti-campaigning during the Gyumri Council of Elders elections in the spring, which, however, did not prevent the organization from being accredited again for the Vagharshapat elections.