Part of the opposition leaders remain on the square with activists, while the rest hold consultations to plan further actions
Hundreds of supporters of the opposition “Motherland Salvation Movement” continue to block Baghramyan Avenue outside the Armenian parliament building in central Yerevan on Thursday evening to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Despite the cold weather, the activists sing patriotic songs and chant anti-government slogans, TASS correspondent reported from the scene.
“We will stay here until the deputies come to the parliament building and vote for Pashinyan’s resignation”, – opposition leader Vazgen Manukyan said earlier, urging his supporters to stay on the streets until morning.
Baghramyan Avenue is blocked by lined rubbish bins and benches. Tents have also been erected there for people to spend the night. Some opposition leaders remain in the square with activists, while others consult to plan further actions. Nevertheless, the situation in Yerevan remains generally calm during these hours. The police does not interfere with what is going on and there are no large gatherings of law enforcement officers. There are no military personnel in the city either.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan also took his supporters to the streets. However, after marching through the streets of Yerevan, he urged everyone to disperse. The head of the Armenian cabinet suggested that the opposition suspend all public rallies and begin political consultations.