Armenia's PM Launches Controversial Allegations Against Church Leader Amid Political Turmoil

The escalating tension between Armenia's government and the Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC) has reached a boiling point. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan recently made shocking allegations against a senior member of the clergy, alleging that Catholicos Karekin II has broken his vow of celibacy and fathered a child. This declaration, made amidst already strained relations, threatens to exacerbate political polarization within the country. Pashinyan's comments come as the Church, once a cooperative force in Armenian politics, faces significant scrutiny and discontent from the ruling government. Meanwhile, opposition figures have rallied to defend the Church, marking a pivotal moment in Armenia's socio-political landscape.

The Armenian Prime Minister declared, "Your Grace, go fool around with your uncle's wife. What do you want from me?" as he publicly called for the resignation of Catholicos Karekin II. Such remarks not only infringe on the historical separation of Church and state but also signal a dramatic shift in Pashinyan's former stance of non-interference in religious matters. The PM has threatened to expose evidence related to his allegations, although he has yet to present any substantiation. The Church, which has fought to maintain its independence, responded by stating that the prime minister sought to undermine its authority.

Traditionally, relations between the Church and the government had prevailed, characterized by joint appearances and cooperative efforts. However, the relationship soured dramatically following Armenia’s loss in the 2020 conflict with Azerbaijan, during which Karekin II called for Pashinyan's resignation, branding him ineffective in leadership. Following this fallout, the Church has emerged as a significant voice of dissent, garnering support from opposition factions and former presidents who criticized Pashinyan’s recent moves against the ecclesiastical leadership.

Adding complexity to the situation, Karekin II has recently voiced concerns for the rights of Armenians displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh, aligning with renewed nationalist sentiments. Pashinyan's push for a peace treaty, notably in direct opposition to these calls, has raised concerns among his supporters regarding the Church's involvement in political dialogues—complicating efforts toward regional peace and stability.

Amidst these tensions, political analysts suggest that Pashinyan's allegations could be a strategic maneuver ahead of the 2026 general elections, aiming to neutralize the Church's influence which has grown in opposition to his governance. He has explicitly linked his political agenda to the Church, stating, "We returned the state to the people. Now we must return the Church to the people."

The situation intensified further when Russian-Armenian billionaire Samvel Karapetyan voiced support for the Church, threatening to take action if opposition forces did not defend it. Shortly after, his residence was raided by authorities, and he faced charges for allegedly calling for the overthrow of the government—an accusation he vehemently denies.

Despite these controversies, the Armenian Church retains a degree of popularity among its followers, though it has long faced criticism over transparency and allegations of financial mismanagement. Internationally, the implications of this dispute may affect the Church's standing across its numerous parishes worldwide, further complicating an already intricate political landscape in Armenia, defined by challenges concerning foreign alliances, national identity, and civil unrest.

As the conflict unfolds, it is clear that the divide between Armenia's government and the Church is more than a domestic affair; it could have reverberations that impact regional stability and the broader diaspora community.