SDHP Central Committee Statement on Developments in Armenia

YEREVAN — The Central Committee of Social Democrat Hunckakian Party expresses its deep concern regarding the recent developments in Armenia, particularly, the instances of police brutality and harsh crackdown on citizens who are exercising their right to freedom of speech and assembly, including citizens who are just innocent bystanders.

The deplorable act of occupying the police station by an armed group cannot be used as pretense for the heavy handed actions of the police that will only worsen the already tense situation and deepen the mistrust among the citizens in the police force.

As such, we ask the police to be conscientious and thoughtful, respect the basic human rights of citizens and take all necessary measures to de-escalate the situation.

On the other hand, we ask those citizens who have taken to the street defending their rights, to show restraint and abstain from any provocative actions that could unnecessarily lead to harmful confrontation with the police.

We believe that the only solution to the current crisis and the existing social and economic problems is if the authorities move beyond their empty rhetoric, come up with clearly specified steps and solutions instead of using the brute force of the police to silence the rightful demands of the citizenry.

Social Democrat Hunckakian Party
Central Committee