YEREVAN. - This struggle can not only suspend the raise of electricity tariff, but also decrease it, Armenian Heritage faction MP Zaruhi Postanjyan told Armenian News – NEWS.am, noting that the actions of the police officers are reprehensible.

“Using force is not only non-proportional in legal terms, but it’s also an immoral act. We urge everyone to be on guard, specifically police should refrain from making illegal orders and allow our citizens express their complaint and demand, as well as exercise their constitutional rights,” she said.  

The MP said she’s not afraid to be on the first line. According to her, people must gather not only in Baghramyan Avenue, but also in all the squares of the republic so that the police can’t use violence.

After the 4-day sit-in, the deadline set by the ‘No to Plunder’ initiative for the government to reconsider its decision on price hike ended. The protesters thus moved in big crowds to Baghramyan Avenue, where the presidential headquarters are located. The protesters blocked their way, following which sit-in started. Early this morning the police managed to disperse the protest, arresting the activists and journalists.

Despite the numerous protests over the electricity price hike, the new electricity tariff was approved at the session of Armenia’s Public Services Regulatory Commission of Armenia (PSRC) on June 17.  The electricity price has gone up by 6,93 AMD, reaching 48,78 AMD (previously 41,85 AMD) per 1 kWh. Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA) CJSC had proposed to raise the electricity price by 17 AMD per 1 kWh.