People diverting election process won’t be eligible to participate in programs and events financed by the US government: Richard Mills

Richard Mills, US Ambassador to Armenia, replies to the questions of 168.am.

Mr. Ambassador, a criminal case has been launched by the Special Investigation Service linked to recording on pre-election meeting in “SAS Group”. Is this process enough and, generally, what implication it may have on political culture in Armenia?

Although elections of April 2 were a crucial step forward regarding democratic development in Armenia, we stated on election bribe, pressure over voters and widely spread and trustworthy reports on use of administrative resource. They coincided with observations of other representatives of international community. We urged the government to launch full investigation based on all reports and all proofs of possible violations and welcomed the decision by the Special Investigation Service to launch investigation regarding bribing SAS employees and intimidation. Detailed, transparent and non-political examination is important so that citizens of Armenia were sure that they may vote freely and without external pressure.

You assured that the government will provide, so that there will be no countercharges or revenge against any person or organization, however, for instance, a criminal case was launched against Daniel Ioannisyan linked to recordings of directors of kindergartens and schools. How would you comment on this situation?  

Personally I was disappointed, when I learned that any crime wasn’t uncovered by the case on use of administrative resource over the teacher staff and parents seemingly exerted pressure by school directors and the staff, although recordings themselves seemed to be convincing cases. Acquiring such proof by the civil society was a brave step and this is courage, which is worth protection and not counter-accusations or revenge. Mr. Ioannisyan’s case will have its solution pursuant judicial order and we hope judges will independently investigate all the claims and accusations and will make decision based on law.

Is that possible that sanctions may be imposed against some citizens or a “black list” may appear?

We may use available trustworthy information and we’ll use, that people diverting the election process won’t be eligible to participate in programs and events financed by the US government.

By Gayane Khachatryan