The new draft of the “Electoral Code” approved by the Government also addressed the procedure of the presence of journalists and observers in the precinct. In particular, Article 65 (paragraph (7) of the Electoral Code reads, “More than eight local observers and a representative of mass media may not be present in the voting room at the same time. Where a maximum number of observers and mass media representatives are present in the precinct, the new observers and mass media representatives shall be listed as prescribed by the Central Electoral Commission and enter the precinct in accordance with the list.
The chairperson of the commission shall have the right to permit presence, for a short time, of observers and mass media representatives in a number exceeding the established quantity unless it hinders the smooth voting process. In the case of impossibility to ensure the fulfillment of this point by the electoral commission, it shall be ensured with the support of the Police, upon the request of the chairperson of the electoral commission.”
Aravot.am talked to the Chairman of Yerevan Press Club Boris Navasardyan regarding this proposed procedure. According to him, this procedure, first of all, will hamper the transparency of the elections and electoral processes, “The only thing with which it could hamper the presence of journalists and observers by more number was such unpleasant phenomena were going to be revealed such as fillings, violence and pressure on the voters. If the journalists and observers are few, then it would be easier to isolate them and not to give them the chance to get photos, make video and prepare other evidences. I do not see any other objective here for I do not know particularly serious cases when the observers and journalists have hampered, if they are true observers and journalists rather than electoral frauds supporting individuals whose number, I think, will not be limited. They do not hamper the voters and transparent electoral process in any way, but only promoting.”
Boris Navasardyan thinks that in any case, we should try to participate in the discussions and introduce such changes to the draft that will improve the Code and will exclude the unfair limitations, “If not for it, then both protests, statements and various attempts to attract the attention of the international community will be necessary, and I think that it will be.”
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Ami CHICHAKYAN, Photo by Zorik GALSTYAN
