Armenian opposition party Strong Armenia seeks annulment of parliamentary election results

The pro‑Russian Strong Armenia party has asked Armenia’s election commission to invalidate the June 7 parliamentary election, citing alleged voting irregularities. Party leader Aram Vardevanyan submitted the petition, arguing that the victory of incumbent Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s Civil Contract party – which received 49.8% of the vote – should not stand, even though the opposition secured 23.2%.

Strong Armenia claims Russian pressure, including economic sanctions on Armenian seafood, flowers, mineral water and alcohol, and alleged online misinformation, aimed to sway the outcome. Armenia’s Central Election Commission has already invalidated two polling stations due to the presence of military personnel after polls closed. International observers reported that voting was smooth overall but noted isolated allegations of vote‑buying. Russia maintains a military base in Armenia and remains a top trading partner, while the European Union accused Moscow of trying to cripple the Armenian economy to influence the vote. Final results are expected to be published on Sunday.