Pashinyan absent from Etchmiadzin protest calling for removal of Catholicos Karekin II
A protest unfolded at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, with crowds demanding the resignation of Catholicos Karekin II. The demonstration followed months of rising tensions, as ten senior clergymen joined calls for the patriarch’s removal. Supporters of both sides gathered outside the cathedral, creating a divided scene.
The rally began after ten archbishops and bishops formally urged Karekin II to step down on December 18, 2025. Their demand aligned with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s earlier statements, which questioned the Catholicos’s leadership. Pashinyan had previously attended church services where Karekin II’s name was omitted, fuelling speculation about his role in the dispute.
Opposition leaders brought in supporters of the patriarch, leading to a mix of chants—some backing Karekin II, others insisting he leave. Despite the growing pressure, Pashinyan did not attend the protest. He later dismissed claims that he had orchestrated the clergy’s actions, stating he saw no need to participate.
The prime minister had met with the ten clergymen before their public call for resignation. While he denied directing their decision, he praised their courage and pledged support for their cause. Critics, however, accuse him of waging an anti-church campaign—a charge he rejects.
Pashinyan has repeatedly described the church as being in crisis, arguing that the situation will not improve while Karekin II remains in office. The dispute has deepened since 2024, with no clear resolution in sight.
The protest highlighted the sharp divide over Karekin II’s leadership, with both clerical and public figures taking opposing stands. The prime minister’s backing of the dissenting bishops has added to the pressure on the patriarch. For now, the church remains in a state of uncertainty, with no immediate end to the conflict.
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