The Liberal Democrat Union of Armenia has condemned the violence against Heritage party members as well as civilians who held a peace protest on March 3.

“Freedom of speech is one of the pillars of democracy. Violation of constitutional rights by the police not only goes contrary to our country's laws but also hampers development of civil society and rule of democracy,” the Union said in a statement.

Street traders, who have been protesting against the decision of Yerevan Mayor’s Office to ban street trade for several weeks already, planned to hold a protest action on March 3 in front of the Armenian government building. However, the site was cordoned by police officers who prevented the demonstrators from approaching the building, what resulting in a clash between the protesters, Heritage party members and police.