YEREVAN.- Police officers have blocked the movement of several hundred participants of the unauthorized rally in support of ex-presidential candidate Raffi Hovannisian.

The police cordoned off Demirchyan Street, while the police officers started negotiation with Raffi Hovannisian, trying to persuade him to withdraw his supporters from Demirchyan Street, leading to Baghramian Avenue, where the presidential residence is located.

According to police, the procession is not authorized , and the presidential residence is hosting events.

However, Hovannisian remained firm and, turning to his supporters, called on them to head to Baghramyan Avenue calmly and quietly.

“Presidential residence belongs to the people, and no one – Serzh Sargsyan or Hovannisian – is able to impede the march,” the opposition leader said.

“Guys, do not do it. We just want to exercise our right to march along Baghramyan Avenue and walk to Liberty Square,” he said, addressing police chief and defense minister.

At this moment, the demonstrators are singing the anthem of Armenia and expect that the police would be instructed to permit their march.

Buses with special forces are brought to Proshyan Street.

Photo by Arsen Sargsyan/NEWS.am