[One of the leading Armenian politicians has recently told me that neither America nor Russia should have any illusions about its influence on Armenia’s internal evolution because its priorities are determined largely by the feelings and demands of the Armenians who are scattered all over the world. In his words, these Armenians will never allow their country to turn into a totalitarian state because private money transfers (which, by the way, are as big as neighboring Azerbaijan’s earnings from the sale of its energy resources in one year) are a deciding factor in the survival of the Armenian economy. Along with the money sent to Armenia from other countries naturally come political signals that the local leadership may not ignore or it may simply lose power.]

On the other hand, I do agree that the government forces may well splinter and squabble over these issues and along with different pro-governmental forces controlling TV, this might make the situation more “hopeful” or rather, potentially volatile. The only real problem, however, is the apathy stille vident in society and the way Prosperous Armenia is conducting itself in Armenia.

Kocharian, Serzh Sarkisyan and Dodi Gagho have a lot to lose if there are democratic elections in Armenia so maybe the question is more a) just how democratic will they allow the elections to be given all you’ve stated above, and b) are these three still inseparable or are there divisions appearing within their ranks?

I understand attempts to control freedom of speach, establishment of unofficial censorship/self-censorship in most TV companies of Armenia. (This one is the worst crime of all if you ask me).

I understand fabrication of at least 3 election results, in 2003 and 2005.

I understand beatings of journalists and peaceful population on the central: Baghramyan avenue of Yerevan.

I understand Government working with Semi-Criminal businessmen, like - same old “Choit”.

I understand many more crimes of that sort, which might not be as obvious, but are as destructive for the development of the country as a whole.

Although Hakob Hakobian is probably only just a scapegoat and a political game that will probably be decided through the exchange of property, his case illustrates exactly how much is at stake — and he’s small fry compared to some. There are also others who should probably be investigated for intimidation, violence and yes, even murder.

Mansions etc. are petty corruption, I don’t believe they are anything but unfair wealth redistribution. Look at the neighbors where georgians practice ethnic cleansings, azeris happily run a inbred dynasty, iranians that stone women and hung people for inasmuch as ‘improper’ holding of hands in public places. Should I mention turks or russians too ?

I don’t believe there are things of that magnitude in Armenia today, at least not to my knowledge. Sure, there is a bunch of opposition types ever pissed that they didn’t get a piece of pie, but who is to say that they would not behave any differently that the people who are at power today. In fact I am 110% sure they will behave exact same way, it is just a reality of the neighborhood and middle eastern mentality.