Former Prime Minister Karen Andreasyan has been actively engaged in various activities recently, promoting them under the title “Something Good,” according to the daily newspaper “Zhoghovurd.” His latest endeavor, labeled as “Something Good #4,” was announced yesterday.

The landscape of Armenia, including its capital city Yerevan, has undergone significant transformations. During my recent visits to provincial courts, I observed well-maintained streets and roads, renovated schools and hospitals, as well as newly established hotels and businesses.

Interestingly, the former prime minister has been vocal in his opposition to corruption in the regions. However, the reality reflects a different picture, with district courts remaining closed and corruption prevailing. This situation has led many citizens to express their dissatisfaction, as they are forced to travel long distances in order to access the courts.

In an official announcement, the Judicial Department disclosed that, following their discussions, the doors of nine out of 51 regional courts (Akhotsk, Tashir, Talin, Artik, Martuni, Vedi, Yeghegnadzor, Sisian, and Meghri) will be closed. Naturally, concerns arise regarding the allocation of judges and the functioning of the justice system in these areas.

During the pandemic, the appointment of a judge was interrupted in Ashtarak and Meghri. However, despite the lack of judicial activity, expenses for utilities and maintenance continued to accumulate in these court buildings. Meanwhile, judicial employees received salaries despite not working or only working partially.

As a result of this decision, the state is projected to save nearly 200 million Armenian drams annually. However, the consequences of this cost-saving measure include a loss of public confidence in the judiciary and widespread dissatisfaction among citizens.

The closure of the courts has sparked protests among employees and judges affected by these closures. They argue that their work in these closed courts was similar to that of other functioning courts and performed comparable tasks. They emphasize the need to fight for justice and demand accountability for the closure of district courts.

For more detailed information, the complete article is available today on News.am.