Constitution currently in force gives oppositionists no chance to work, they can only criticize: Hrayr Tovmasyan
The proposed amendments to the Constitution of Armenia restrict the presidential powers: the president can no longer participate in political processes, take a supra-party position and symbolize the unity of the people, Chief of the Armenian parliament’s staff Hrayr Tovmasyan said at a meeting with residents of Verin Artashat village in Ararat province today as he was campaigning during “Yes and No’ television reality show ahead of the December 6 constitutional referendum in Armenia.
Tovmasyan, a member of Yes Front, reminded those present that the draft constitutional amendments propose the transition to a 100% proportional representation system, create a system of checks and balances, while the opposition is provided with deterrence mechanisms.
Beside, according to Hrayr Tovmasyan, the opposition will participate in elections of key officials, including chairman of the Central Bank of Armenia.
Under the current political system, there are no criteria for assessment of the opposition’s actions so it turns out that oppositionists can only criticize. The draft constitutional amendments give the opposition an opportunity to actually act, Tovmasyan said.
‘Yes and No’ joint television project of Armnews and A1+ Companies was launched on November 13. The reality show is broadcast by Armnews TV Channel 12 hours a day and can also be viewed at the website of A1+. 16 political and public figures travel to Armenian regions during the reality show. Two groups were formed, each consisting of 4 participants supporting and 4 opposing the constitutional reform. One team will be visiting northern regions of Armenia, the other will go to southern provinces. Their meetings with local residents will be broadcast live on November 13 – December 2 from 11 am to 11 pm.