May 16, 2012 - 20:08 AMT
Parliament vice-speaker: coalition, if formed, must have President Sargsyan as leader

The ruling Republican Party of Armenia (RPA) hasn’t officially discussed a possibility of forming coalition with other political forces, the vice speaker of Armenian National Assembly said.

As Eduard Sharmazanov told a PanARMENIAN.Net reporter, “May 17 sitting of RPA executive body will mainly center on post-electoral issues.”

“However, whether or not a coalition is formed, in the next 5 years, RPA will remain the most influential and responsible political force enjoying people’s trust,” he said.

“A coalition, with the main focus on reforms and development of the country, must have common programs and leadership. Which means, the coalition, if formed, will have President Serzh Sargsyan as its leader.”

Asked whether political forces joining RPA in a coalition will be obligated to support Serzh Sargsyan’s candidacy at 2013 presidential elections, Sharmazanov noted, “electing Sargsyan is not a purpose in itself, but rather a historical necessity, prompted by current situation in the country.”