YEREVAN. – Armenian coalition government’s junior member, Orinats Yerkir (Rule of Law) Party (RLP), expressed its deep concern by the assassination attempt against presidential candidate, opposition National Self-Determination Union Chairman Paruyr Hayrikyan, who is in hospital as a result of a gunshot wound (photos).    

“This was a treacherous blow against the state, the country’s people and authorities. The party deplores what transpired and expects the law enforcement agencies to promptly solve the crime. RLP expresses its support to Paruyr Hayrikyan, his family and political team, and wishes [him] a speedy recovery,” Orinats Yerkir’s respective statement also reads.       

As Armenian News-NEWS.am informed earlier, an assassination attempt was made against presidential candidate, opposition National Self-Determination Union Chairman Paruyr Hayrikyan, on Thursday at around 11:20pm in downtown Yerevan. Hayrikyan was shot and hospitalized with a gunshot wound in the right collarbone.

Numerous senior officials, politicians, and other presidential contenders are coming to the hospital.

A criminal case is opened in connection with the assassination attempt against Paruyr Hayrikyan. It is launched on charges of carrying out an assassination attempt against a statesman, political or public figure, which—that is, the attempt—is carried out to end this person’s noted activities. This crime is punishable by imprisonment for 12-20 years, or life in prison.    

The National Security Service is conducting the investigation.