Taron Margaryan Had Better Take A Timeout

Serzh Sargsyan, visited Mashtots Park and put an end to the political career of the young mayor of Yerevan Taron Margaryan. Serzh Sargsyan did repeat for about twenty times that Taron was right when he did one thing or another but in fact he meant that Taron was wrong.

Serzh Sargsyan ran across Taron many times. Perhaps, he honestly supported him. First, he did not appoint him mayor when Gagik Beglaryan resigned. Then he said that Taron is too young to be the mayor of the capital. Almost a year later after Karen Karapetyan’s resignation Serzh Sargsyan nevertheless appointed Taron. But he stated then that Taron will live up to their expectations. In speaking with Taron Serzh Sargsyan still stresses his young age and early promotion.

Such approach does not help Taron look a solid mayor. He cannot escape Serzh Sargsyan’s guardianship and make independent decisions.

But the worst thing came after the story of Mashtots Park. Serzh Sargsyan did not interfere even when it was clear that the citizens' movement against the construction of the boutiques was not diminishing and was gathering momentum. He saw that all the cones fall on Taron, he is the scapegoat but did nothing to protect the young mayor.

Perhaps, Taron did not ask Serzh Sargsyan for help trying to deal with the situation on his own but he did not understand that he was being crossed up. Apparently, when it became clear that on May 6 the next attempt to dismantle the boutiques will be held, Taron went to the president and told him what he had in his mind.

Perhaps he did not say that he was being crossed up but complained that he is left alone with the problems. However, it was adequate to Serzh Sargsyan’s “paternal” attitude, who went to rescue the “pet”.

In fact, Serzh Sargsyan put an end to Taron’s career. He actually said that the mayor didn’t live up to their expectations. Taron will need a lot of time to restore his image and authority. Perhaps, he will need a timeout and the best way will be resign and take his time which will enable the young politician to gain strength and experience to return.