“Media Advocate” Initiative finds Nikol Pashinyan’s today’s statement on TV companies voiced at a cabinet meeting unacceptable.
“There is a clear function of controlling information flows in the country and it should not be concealed. We know that this function exists and that this function is under the control of certain people linked with the former leadership of the Republic and those having family ties with them. We have adopted a political strategy, we must continue our work in this direction as we did before. Today there are even TVs in Armenia belonging to corruptioners; at least 2 of the TV channels in Armenia, may have a “corruption” caption instead of a logo, in their case we may say a “corruption” or “corruption croup” company presents the urgent news release in Armenia. The Prime Minister added that “real logos should be on real TV companies”. I have statistics; there is a TV company in Armenia, whenever I change the channels and come across to it, I bet they will air a very enthusiastic interview from a criminal who is charged with a corruption criminal case, who will explain to our society how to make it hot for someone.”
“Media Advocate” initiative demands from the head of government not to not label the TV companies.
This is another attempt to silence TV companies, and to oppose freedom of speech. Such speech is a clear instruction to start censorship and to control television channels.
“Media Advocate” demands to deliver proper speeches.
It should be reminded that currently there are parliamentary hearings on legislative changes in the field of audiovisual media services. The Prime Minister’s observations may affect further developments in the draft law. We hope the draft will not be adapted to the requirements of the government and will be aimed at the long-term future.
