Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan intensifies crackdown on opposition

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has intensified a campaign against opposition figures following his re‑election in July 2026. Opposition parties have petitioned the constitutional court to annul the vote, alleging widespread misconduct, while hundreds protested outside the Central Electoral Commission. A newly formed watchdog says the government is creating “an atmosphere of fear” and isolates political leaders. The committee quoted former MP Elinar Vardanyan: “Everything is being done to foster a climate of fear, isolate political and public figures, and attempt to decapitate the numerous opposition forces.”

On July 16, state media reported that the government seized a cement company owned by Gagik Tsarukyan, a billionaire opposition leader arrested on fraud charges related to $21 million of imports from Iran. The Anti‑Corruption Court transferred the shares to the state, citing alleged illegal acquisition. Critics, including think‑tank director Tigran Grigoryan, warned that “there is a huge danger and risk that more and more people … will become victims of this process.” The asset seizure follows Pashinyan’s pledge to confiscate “illicit assets” of opposition parties he labels a “three‑headed spy party of war.” The European Union has expressed support for Armenia’s democratic reforms, while observers note the crackdown raises concerns about politicised use of the legal system.