YEREVAN. – The demonstrators at Baghramyan Avenue in Armenia’s capital city Yerevan—and who are holding a protest demanding the cancelation of the recent decision to raise the price of electricity in the country—on Saturday offered sweets and fruits to the Chief of Police, Vladimir Gasparyan.
Gasparyan, however, turned down the offer.
“No, it’s impossible in the morning; [but] I thank you, dear,” said the Police chief.
On early Tuesday morning, the Yerevan police dispersed the activists protesting against electricity price hike by using water cannon, and they detained many activists and journalists, who were later released.
On Tuesday evening, however, the sit-in participants marched toward the Office of the President—on Baghramyan Avenue—yet again and with a larger crowd, but the police blocked their way again.
However, the sit-in still continues at the starting point of Baghramyan Avenue, which is closed off, and traffic towards this boulevard is suspended.
Despite numerous protests, the Public Services Regulatory Commission recently increased the price of electricity in Armenia, and this decision will take effect on August 1. The decision, however, is expected to be followed by an increase in the prices of numerous products and services in the country.
