YEREVAN -- The head of Armenia's National Security Service (NSS) has objected to the country's attempts to bring its laws on freedom of assembly closer to European standards, RFE/RL's Armenian Service reports.
Inspired by recent developments in North Africa, Armenia’s largest opposition coalition is preparing for “large-scale rallies” in Yerevan’s Freedom Square starting on February 18.
Amid conflicting reports that Gagik Beglarian, the former mayor of the Armenian capital Yerevan, may face criminal charges for allegedly assaulting a presidential administration employee, the city is preparing for a snap mayoral election.
The recent resignation of Yerevan Mayor Gagik Beglarian, followed by the dismissal of Justice Minister Gevorg Danielian, both apparently in connection with the beatings of lower-ranking government officials, is fueling hope among civil society activists that the Armenian government is no longer letting top officials act with impunity.
