President of Artsakh Samvel Shahramanyan has stated that he has not yet made a decision on whether to run in the upcoming presidential election scheduled after May 21.

“I currently have no decision to run for president; we will announce our decision in due course,” Shahramanyan told Pastinfo.

He noted that, according to the Constitution, the election is to be held within 7 to 10 days after May 21.

“The decision will depend on the stance of political forces and society. We will take everyone's views into account,” Shahramanyan said.

He also revealed that two days ago he contacted the Prosecutor General’s Office of Artsakh and the Anti-Corruption Committee regarding an ongoing criminal investigation concerning the Artsakh Investment Fund.

“I have asked for information on the steps taken following our letter dated November 8, 2023. We also requested that recent public statements be treated as reports of a crime and that appropriate measures be taken. We have yet to receive a response,” he added.

Shahramanyan emphasized his readiness to assist citizens who recently held a protest near the Artsakh Representation, including by organizing meetings with law enforcement representatives.

President Shahramanyan recently met with members of the Council for the Protection of the Rights of Artsakh Armenians at Freedom Square. The council representatives said they have a proposal concerning the issues facing the people of Artsakh, which will soon be presented to the president. They also plan to issue a public statement soon.