Armenian presidential candidate Paruyr Hayrikyan’s popularity index soared from 50% to 80% following Jan 31 assassination attempt, head of Sociometer sociological center said.

Aharon Adibekyan noted that the sensation will last a week, with Hayrikyan to garner more votes if the election day remains unchanged.

Candidate Hayrikyan earlier said on Feb 4 he will announce an official decision whether he will address the Constitutional Court with a request to delay the elections, slated for Feb 18.

Candidate Hayrikyan said he already felt well, describing Jan 31 assassination attempt as a move against the whole of Armenia.

The Article 52 of Constitution stipulates for a 2-week delay in presidential poll in case insurmountable difficulties prevent one of the candidates from running for the post. In case of a candidate’s death, new elections are scheduled to be held in 40 days.

On late Thursday, January 31, Hayrkyan was taken to a hospital with a gunshot wound.

A joint group of police and national security service officers has been set up to investigate the assassination attempt. Necessary operative and investigation measures are taken to identify the culprit.