Karlen Aslanyan’s interview was unilateral

On July 2, ANC (Armenian National Congress) Deputy Chairman Levon Zurabyan was Karlen Aslanyan’s guest on Azatutyun TV. The topic of the discussion was the recent internal political events, starting from the increase of the property tax to the events regarding the Constitutional Court. Karlen Aslanyan, violating journalistic ethics, made a political statement: “The Congress, being a supporter of the revolution, one of the forces that had the greatest contribution in that fight, is now being positioned as a constructive opposition.” Besides, the journalist, referring to the developments over the Constitutional Court, voiced incorrect formulations: “Hrayr Tovmasyan, who is one of the causes of this crisis, will stay in that building for another ten years, not to mention the other judges who have been the part of election frauds. Karlen Aslanyan agreed with the guest’s thoughts, he did not raise any counter-question, for example, about the election frauds happened in 1995-1996 for which the ANC is blamed for. The interview was titled as “The goal of this “opposition” is chaos, so as they avoid the return of the robbery, refrain from punishment.” In fact, the interview was unilateral and not objective. “Media Advocate” initiative urges Azatutyun TV to adhere to journalistic principles and refrain from political statements. The presenter has no right to show his political views, or express an opinion, on the contrary, he or she must be neutral and impartial.