The first assembly of the “Aylentrank” (Alternative) NGO/political organization took place at Freedom Square and based on different evaluations, there were 1500-2000 participants. Representatives of the Armenian National Movement, “Hanrapetutyun” (Republic), Armenian Democratic Party, “New Times” and other parties were also present. After the meeting, the participants marched towards the Public Television/Radio building as a sign of protest to submit their letter to the Public Television/Radio Company. During the march, there was some pushing-and-shoving by police and participants. The police demanded that the demonstrators march on the sidewalk, but there were too many participants for all of them to walk on one sidewalk. In the end, the demonstrators won and continued their march without any other events.
The abovementioned letter states that Public Television was founded by the state, is funded on the account of taxpayers and functions by the “Television and Radio Law” of the Republic of Armenia.
“However, public television has turned into a means of spreading wrong information, the advertising and worshipping of some individuals and groups and stupefies the public,” stated the authors of the letter.
“Aylentrank” demands the opportunity to present its point of views to the public during the month of February. The next meeting of “Aylentrank” will take place on March 2 at 4:00 p.m. in the square near the Matenadaran. The meeting will not take place at Freedom Square because the grand rehearsal for the play “Arshak the Second” is scheduled for that day in the opera building.