Rumors of Robert Kocharian’s Return are Not Unfounded: Russian Paper on Developments in Armenia

The ruling Republican Party of Armenia is concerned about tomorrow, writes Russian daily Nezavisimaya Gazeta today, noting that talk of second president Robert Kocharian’s [pictured] possible return to politics have resumed once again.

“Indirect evidence of this can be considered the former foreign affairs minister, head of Civilitas Foundation Vartan Oskanian’s membership in the Prosperous Armenia Party, which, along with the Republican Party of Armenia, is still part of the ruling coalition. It was Kocharian who initiated the creation of the Prosperous Armenia Party, and as said among experts, with this, he ensured political support. Recently, tension between the Republicans and the ‘Prosperous’ was evident, because of rumors that Kocharian has lost confidence in the main party in power. And the rumors, it appears, are not unfounded. Oskanian is considered ‘Kocharian’s guy.’ It’s no coincidence that Republican Party leaders were extremely irritated toward Oskanian’s first statement in the new party [when he signaled his intent to join the party], that he hasn’t yet managed to join the ‘Prosperous’ and yet he’s already outlining a plan. The question is whose [plan]?” writes the daily.