ARF Armenia leader calls for unity to remove anti-national government

The 35th World Congress of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) convened today in Yerevan, bringing together political and public figures, including Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan. The meeting opened with the national anthems of Armenia and Artsakh.

In his opening remarks, Ishkhan Saghatelyan, an MP from the opposition Hayastan faction and a member of the ARF Armenia Supreme Body, emphasized the historical significance of ARF congresses since 1892, noting their pivotal role during critical moments in Armenian history.

Saghatelyan highlighted the unique nature of the ARF, stating: “Those less familiar with our party may have different perceptions of the organization. However, I am confident that anyone who has witnessed an ARF meeting will attest that no other political organization in Armenia operates with such accountability of leadership to its members, where the sharpest criticism is welcomed, where personality cults are rejected and where democracy is not merely a slogan but a fundamental way of life and thinking.”

Reflecting on recent challenges, he underscored that the 2020 war defeat, the Azerbaijani occupation of Artsakh, the forced displacement of its ethnic Armenian population, as well as the imprisonment of Armenian POWs and Artsakh’s leadership, including ARF Bureau member David Ishkhanyan, in Baku “have inflicted deep wounds”.

“Today, we are committed to offering our people a new vision and a clear roadmap for struggle and recovery in the face of current realities. We must restore trust, overcome despair and emerge stronger to confront the enemy and preserve our homeland,” Saghatelyan remarked.

“Once again, I call on all national forces to unite in removing the anti-national government, neutralizing the threats to our people and statehood, forming a new, competent national government and building a strong Armenia through the collective potential of all Armenians,” he added.