Armenia’s Anti-Corruption Committee confirms election-related arrests

Armenia’s Anti-Corruption Committee confirmed on October 24 that some individuals had been arrested in criminal investigations into suspected election-related corruption in several communities. The investigations come as communities prepare for local elections.

The committee told Armenpress that evidence-gathering and other procedural actions were underway. It disclosed neither the identities of those arrested nor an arrest total, saying it could not provide further information in the interests of the preliminary investigation.

Media reports identify parties and local officials

Separately, Armenpress cited media reports identifying people reportedly detained in three communities. These identifications were not part of the committee’s confirmation:

• In Artik, the reports named members and city council candidates of the For the Republic and Homeland parties.
• In Martuni, the reports identified representatives of the Our Community alliance.
• In Yeghegnadzor, the reports identified the community head, his deputy and council members.

Local self-government elections are scheduled for October 25 in 21 communities across Armenia.