Justice Minister Srbuhi Galyan stated she sees no problems with the nationalization of the Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA). Speaking to journalists, she recalled that citizens have long expressed dissatisfaction with ENA’s operations.

When asked about similar complaints regarding Veolia water company, she did not rule out the possibility of discussions on that matter as well.

“Other solutions related to Veolia Water may also be considered. I cannot comment further for now,” Galyan said, according to Sputnik Armenia.

According to the minister, public dissatisfaction with ENA predates the recent developments involving businessman Samvel Karapetyan. She emphasized that instructions to address these issues had come from Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan earlier. Galyan believes that Karapetyan’s recent statements followed the government’s move to resolve problems with ENA.

“Perhaps those statements made by certain individuals were prompted by the discussions and directives issued to resolve those issues. I know and I say—yes,” Galyan added.

Addressing whether it is lawful for Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to threaten dismissal of citizens participating in protests supporting Karapetyan, Ghalyan said:

“No one can threaten the exercise of free will if that will is truly free. What Pashinyan says is that participation in rallies under coercion—not voluntarily—may have consequences.”

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan wrote on Facebook that ENA employees “involved in political scheming” will be dismissed in July. He added that those forcing employees to attend rallies will face prosecution.