Armenian opposition figure claims government is establishing ‘neo-Turkic fascism’

Panorama

Armenian opposition politician Arman Abovyan accused the country’s leadership of establishing an authoritarian system and “neo-Turkic fascism” during a discussion marking the fourth death anniversary of producer Armen Grigoryan, who died in a courtroom while in custody.

Abovyan, a member of the Prosperous Armenia Party, said Grigoryan’s case had become an early indication of the country’s shift toward authoritarian rule.

“The entire ordeal involving Armen unfolded before everyone’s eyes,” Abovyan said. “Even then, we were saying that an authoritarian system of governance was taking hold in the country.”

He argued that recent developments involving Prosperous Armenia leader Gagik Tsarukyan also reflected authoritarian practices. According to Abovyan, such practices include restrictions on freedom of expression, retaliation against people for expressing opinions or even liking social media posts, dismissals and imprisonment for free speech.

Abovyan also claimed Armenia has developed a distinct form of authoritarianism.

“Today, neo-Turkic fascism is taking shape in Armenia,” he said. “I say this without taking anything out of context, without exaggeration and without intending it as an insult. Such a system demands absolute conformity with the line set by the authorities. Anyone who steps outside that line is immediately subjected to persecution.”

He said Grigoryan’s case was the clearest example of that pattern.

“Yes, Armen was the first victim of neo-Turkic fascism,” Abovyan stated.