As a result of large-scale measures carried out by the operative-search units of the Anti-Corruption Committee of the Republic of Armenia, factual data have been obtained indicating that a group of individuals, acting in prior agreement, intended to distribute electoral bribes to a number of residents of Armavir marz in order to ensure their participation in the National Assembly elections scheduled for June 7, 2026, and their voting in favor of the political party designated by them.

In furtherance of their criminal intent, the aforementioned persons initially established an office of the “Mer Dzevov” (“Our Way”) non-governmental organization in Metsamor community. Thereafter, during 2025–2026, they formally registered various residents of Armavir marz within the organization and instructed them to recruit people willing to vote for the “Strong Armenia” party in the elections. It was also established that the electoral bribes, which had been promised in advance and were provided in stages, were disguised as salaries in an attempt to conceal the fact of bribery and minimize the risk of detection.

Notably, the primary conditions for being employed by the organization included having a large family, a broad network of acquaintances, and voter status.

In addition, another group of persons, acting in prior agreement, following the entry into force on February 7, 2026, of the Presidential Decree calling the regular National Assembly elections, and despite the statutory prohibition on charitable activities during the election period, provided, under the guise of charity, various amounts of money free of charge to several residents of Armavir marz in February-March 2026. These payments were made purportedly on behalf of the “Strong Armenia” party and were intended to cover medical expenses.

A criminal proceeding has been initiated under the relevant articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Armenia. Several dozen searches have been conducted, and five persons have been detained.

The Anti-Corruption Committee urges the public to refrain from engaging in criminal conduct involving the distribution of electoral bribes, whether in concealed or any other form, as well as from violating the statutory ban on charitable activities during the election period. Citizens are also called upon to avoid involvement in electoral crimes or related suspicious activities, including receiving remuneration without performing actual work.

Taking into account the existence of such criminal schemes, the Committee will henceforth carry out ongoing monitoring to identify persons registered in, or otherwise affiliated with, organizations connected to political parties participating in elections, who are in any way - including through concealed methods - involved in the commission or preparation of electoral crimes.

Notification. the person accused of a crime is considered innocent until his guilt is proven in accordance with the procedure established by the RA Criminal Procedure Code by a verdict entered into legal force.