Rule of Law Party to Become 'Republicanized,' While Artur Baghdasaryan Receives New Post

After signing a new coalition declaration on Feb. 17, the issue of the three parties in the ruling coalition – Republican Party of Armenia (HHK), Prosperous Party (BHK) and Rule of Law (OEK) — backing a single candidate in the elections was being discussed, reports local daily Hraparak.

"The most against this was BHK. According to our information, Gagik Tsarukyan and Serzh Sargsyan made an agreement that they will run in the National Assembly elections separately. In this case, the question of OEK becomes complicated; however, the RA president has decided not to forsake his junior fellow and a few OEK members will make it to the Republicans' list.

"And after the elections, Artur Baghdasaryan receiving a new position is not ruled out. According to reports, the State Revenue Committee will be split and Baghdasaryan will be assigned chair of Customs . Tax will continue to operate under the chairmanship of Gagik Khachatryan.

"By the way, it's still not clear who from OEK will enter parliament. Perhaps only the question of Hovhannes Margaryan is definite, while, say, Heghine Bisharyan is still being discussed," writes Hraparak.