Ex-defense minister: I won't give up my right to speak openly

PanARMENIAN.Net - Former Armenian Defense Minister David Tonoyan has issued a statement in response to media reactions, asserting that he will not relinquish his right to speak openly with the public.

“Given recent media commentary, I would like to emphasize a few key points:

Reviewing the report of the parliamentary inquiry commission investigating the circumstances of the war launched on September 27, 2020, and the transcripts of the sessions I attended on August 1–2, 2023, is not a ‘whim’ but a right enshrined in constitutional law — especially relevant amid the ongoing ‘trial’ in Baku and other proceedings against Armenian servicemen.

Constitutional law grants me the right to request amendments to the transcripts, provide clarifications, and fully present my position regarding the commission's report.

In the presence of clear legal procedures, phrases like ‘allowed’ or ‘not allowed’ and hints at potential confidentiality restrictions are unfounded and unacceptable, especially considering the positions I have held. Moreover, if I could participate in the commission’s sessions as a detainee under criminal prosecution, how can any restrictions apply to me now?

As I explained in the September publication David Tonoyan: The Army, Politics, and War, my decision to attend the commission’s sessions was not taken lightly. Despite doubts about the commission’s true aims, I chose to participate to show the public I have nothing to hide. When I was later officially informed that the report lacks legal standing, those doubts were only reinforced.

There was public expectation that the commission’s report would be made public around the fifth anniversary of the 44-day war in September 2025. But due to these concerns, I supported the preparation and publication of The Army, Politics, and War to ensure my right to speak transparently would not be constrained by others’ opaque agendas. I believe the book offers answers to many key questions.

I expect a substantive response soon to my November 25 letter addressed to the Speaker of the National Assembly. Otherwise, neither I nor the public will understand the true purpose of establishing this commission,” Tonoyan concluded.

The parliamentary commission’s report on the 2020 war has not been made public and was archived.