Armenian constitutional court independence faces criticism over appointment process

Public discussions in Armenia highlighted concerns that the Constitutional Court cannot be fully independent because roughly 90 % of its judges are appointed by the same authority whose actions the court reviews. Dr. Hayk Manasyan, a medical professional, and former MP Anna Kostanyan argued that the court’s composition undermines its impartiality.

Kostanyan called for the creation of public councils involving experts from various sectors to draft constitutional reforms, warning that current proposals tied to President Nikol Pashinyan’s agenda may not reflect the national interest. She urged continued public hearings on the matter and pledged civil‑initiative groups will oppose any constitutional changes perceived as serving external interests, such as those promoted by Azerbaijan’s President Aliyev.