YEREVAN. – The parliamentary elections held in Armenia are consistent with international standards, the International expert Center for Electoral Systems (ICES) observer Lydia Lawson stated on Monday.  

In her words, the voting process proceeded without violations. She noted, however, that there were shortcomings at certain constituencies, and there were cases when the proxies interfered in the electoral process.

“There were cases when some representatives from the political forces exhibited a false approach,” she said.  

Lawson noted that there were technical problems at numerous precincts in connection with the stamps put on the voters’ passports. These stamps disappeared in two hours instead of the envisioned twelve hours. The observer also informed that the situation stabilized once the stamp inks were replaced.

As per Lydia Lawson, the ICES observers were treated with respect by the electoral commission members at all precincts they visited.   

A total of 31,418 observers from 53 local organizations, and 647 representatives from 11 international organizations and foreign embassies accredited in Armenia monitored the voting process.   

Eight political parties and one bloc participated in the parliament elections in Armenia: Republican Party of Armenian, Prosperous Armenia Party, Orinats Yerkir, Armenian National Congress, Heritage Party, ARF Dashnaktsutyun, the Communist Party of Armenia, Democratic Party of Armenia and United Armenians Party. For entering the 131-seat National Assembly (Parliament), the parties must poll over 5% of votes, while blocs - over 7%.