VAHAN HOVHANNISSIAN: “I AM SURE I SHALL RUN IN THE SECOND ROUND”

A1 Plus, 30 January, 2008

“I am not going to give my votes to any of the candidates, since I am sure that I shall participate in the second round,” presidential candidate, member of the ARF Dashnaktsutiun Bureau and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Vahan Hovhannissian said today.

In reply to A1+’s question whether the presidential candidates are given equal footing, Vahan Hovhannissian said, “Obviously, they do not enjoy equal conditions. There are some objective reasons for it. On the one hand, let’s take into consideration the candidates’ chances. One of them is supported by a mighty party, while the other has no supporters. One has great financial means to recover pre-election expenses, while the others do not possess such means. […]

“Election frauds are inevitable even in developed countries but they must not affect the election outcome and must be addressed in due time,” Vahan Hovhannissian said.

The presidential candidate says during their regional visits, he revealed that rural residents are interested in the political life. They are concerned over Armenia’s future. People are particularly concerned about the opportunity of secret voting.

According to the NA Deputy Speaker, rural electors were told that Vahan Hovhannissian would give his votes in favor of the Government’s candidate, and were persuaded to vote openly. Vahan Hovhannissian says that this is “an absolute lie and a legend.” […]

While speaking about the pre-election campaigns of the rivals, Vahan Hovhannissian stated that some of them are extremely passive, but at the same time, there are candidates, who visit the regions, and the escort accompanying them, is enough to secure audience for them.

http://www.a1plus.am/en/?page=issue&iid=56938