The COVID-19 pandemic continues to claim lives, as people succumb to the deadly virus. On November 3, during a discussion of the 2024 state budget in the National Assembly, Gagik Papoyan, the Chairman of the NA Finance Committee, drew attention to the potential risks associated with rallies and demonstrations. He warned that such gatherings could lead to further infections and unfortunate deaths. Papoyan urged the participants to prioritize the health and safety of their party members, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. “I want to say, take care of your party’s militants, otherwise, the vaccination syringes may end up next to their corpses,” he stated.

The remarks sparked a heated exchange, with Kristine Vardanyan, a representative of the “Armenia” bloc, responding to Papoyan’s comment. She challenged him to identify whose deaths he desired, proposing that they undergo tests together to determine who had been fully vaccinated. Vardanyan retorted, “You are not a football commentator.” However, Papoyan swiftly interrupted her, cutting off her words and asserting his control. “Stop talking, priest. I decide whether to speak or not. I am steering the ship,” Papoyan declared.

The situation in Armenia remains tense as the country continues to battle the pandemic and grapple with the economic consequences it has brought. As the debates in the National Assembly unfold, it is evident that emotions are running high, with officials expressing contrasting views on how to navigate through these challenging times. While the focus should be on implementing measures to safeguard public health and ensure the well-being of citizens, the exchange between Papoyan and Vardanyan highlights the intensity of the political discourse surrounding this issue.

It is crucial for all individuals, regardless of their political affiliations, to recognize the gravity of the situation and act responsibly. The virus does not discriminate based on party lines, and it poses a threat to the entire population. The effectiveness of vaccination has been established, and it is imperative that citizens, including party members, prioritize getting vaccinated to protect themselves and those around them. The exchange in the National Assembly serves as a reminder that in these trying times, unity and collaboration are essential in overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic.