April 15 in Yerevan: Opposition Calls for Civil Disobedience

Demonstrations against former President Serzh Sargsyan are now on day three in Yerevan, Armenia, where protesters are demanding that Sargsyan not become the country’s next Prime Minister.

The rallies have been taking place in one of the capital’s busiest intersections surrounding “France Square”, where traffic has been completely stopped and protesters remain through the nights.

Read More: Demonstrations in Yerevan: Chronicle of April 14

At a speech on April 15, head of Civil Contract Party of Armenia, main opposition organizer, and Member of Parliament Nikol Pashinyan called on citizens to engage in acts of civil disobedience.

– Pashinyan called on citizens to start in the morning of April 16 in Yerevan and shut down three main bridges, central streets, the Yerevan Metro, and walk to Baghramyan Avenue towards the National Assembly. “We must enter the National Assembly by tens of thousands. The future of this process depends solely on your participation,” announced Pashinyan.

– Pashinyan called upon students and university employees to begin a walk out. He encouraged parents to not send their children to school.

– Earlier in the day, activist and lead singer of System of a Down (SOAD) Serj Tankian also called upon citizens to engage in acts of civil disobedience. “Civil disobedience works like a charm when enough people participate,” wrote Tankian.

On April 16, the ruling Republican Faction of the National Assembly will formally nominate Serzh Sargsyan for the position of Prime Minister. The vote is due on April 17.

Read more:

Demonstrations in Yerevan: Chronicle of April 14

What you need to know about demonstrations in Yerevan

Serj Tankian Reacts to Demonstrations in Yerevan

Armenia’s disputed move toward true democracy

Thousands gather in Yerevan, demanding Sargsyan step down