Armenia’s government is cracking down on vote-buying: anyone flying in from Russia to cast a ballot in the June 7 parliamentary election in exchange for money faces conscription into a 25-day military training camp. Deputy Chief of Staff Taron Chakhoyan announced the measure on social media on June 3. Those who evade service risk prosecution.
Chakhoyan stressed that the measure specifically targets individuals traveling from Russia “for bribes.” The announcement comes days before the election and appears aimed at preventing vote-buying and illegal election interference. Authorities see the move as an attempt to safeguard the integrity of the ballot.
The backdrop is Armenia’s large diaspora in Russia. Many Armenians work there and return for elections. The government in Yerevan fears that Russian actors might try to manipulate the vote through cash payments. The step is part of a broader campaign against electoral fraud.
The announcement comes at a time of strained relations between Armenia and Russia. Yerevan accuses Moscow of interfering in internal affairs and undermining the country’s sovereignty. The threat of a military camp is a clear signal to potential voters not to let themselves be instrumentalized.
Source: www.kyivpost.com
