Armenia’s PM urges Chief of General Staff submit resignation application on his own

No one dares to infringe my order, Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated at the Republic Square today.

“As Prime Minister of Armenia I order the officers of the Armed Forces deal with their work – protect Armenia’s territorial integrity and borders,” Pashinyan said.

He said after the war he many times taught about resigning but came to the conclusion that he became PM not with his own will, but was elected by the people, consequently people must demand his resignation.

Referring to the actions of the opposition, Pashinyan said his proposal of snap elections is in force and addressing the opposition forces said he is ready for consultations with them over the issue.

“I am ready for negotiations even with political forces who voice the sharpest criticism,” he said.

At the same time Pashinyan stated that from today he will put an end to “velvet.”

“No velvet from today, no velvet,” he shouted.

Referring to the resignation issue of Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Onik Gasparyan he said that the situation must be resolved.

“I had a phone conversation with the president and told him that my opinion is that he must sign my petition. If the president does not sign it…what does it mean? Is he joining the coup? Dear Onik, sign resignation application on your own and leave,” the PM said, addressing to the top military.

After the speech in the Republic Square Pashinyan and his supporters marched in Tigran Mets street.