Armenia: Protests continue in Yerevan April 21 /update 5

Event

Opposition supporters continued protesting in the capital city of Yerevan for the ninth straight day on Saturday, April 21. Thousands of people blocked streets during a march against the confirmation of former President Serzh Sargsyan as prime minister. According to security officials, 70 people have been detained, including two people suspected of building bombs. Opposition lawmaker Nikol Pashinian has continued to reject Sargsyan’s offer to hold talks in an effort to end the protests. Further demonstrations are likely in the coming days. Significant transportation disruptions as well as an increased security presence are to be anticipated citywide while protests continue.

Context

Police officials announced that 183 people were detained during demonstrations on April 20. Demonstrations have been taking place regularly in Yerevan since April 13.

In December 2015, a controversial constitutional amendment was passed that changed Armenia's government from a semipresidential system to a parliamentary republic. Under the new government, the president has a largely ceremonial role while the prime minister becomes more powerful. Opponents claim that the new system was designed to allow Sargsyan (first elected president in April 2008) to maintain control of the government following the end of his term on April 9. Opposition leaders have called for a "Velvet Revolution" in a bid to "preserve" democracy in the country.

Advice

Individuals present in Armenia, particularly in Yerevan, are advised to avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence and monitor the situation.