Fact Check: Pashinyan Called for Church Leader Karekin II's Resignation Over Alleged Celibacy Violation
What We Know
On June 8, 2024, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan publicly called for the resignation of Catholicos Karekin II, the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC), alleging that Karekin had violated his vow of celibacy by fathering a child. Pashinyan's statements included provocative remarks directed at Karekin, suggesting a personal and political confrontation between the government and the Church (BBC, AP News). The Church has not directly addressed the allegations regarding Karekin's personal life but has accused Pashinyan of attempting to undermine its authority and spiritual unity (AP News).
Analysis
The claim that Pashinyan called for Karekin II's resignation over alleged violations of celibacy is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The BBC reported that Pashinyan explicitly accused Karekin of breaking his vow of celibacy and called for his resignation, indicating a significant escalation in the already strained relationship between the Armenian government and the Church (BBC). Similarly, AP News corroborated this by stating that Pashinyan's allegations were made in a broader context of political tension, where the Church has increasingly positioned itself as an opposition voice against the government (AP News).
The reliability of these sources is strong. The BBC is a well-established international news organization known for its rigorous journalistic standards, while AP News is also a reputable wire service that provides timely and accurate reporting. Both outlets have covered the political dynamics in Armenia extensively, providing context that enhances the credibility of their reports.
However, it is important to note that while Pashinyan's allegations have not been substantiated with public evidence, they reflect a significant political maneuvering within Armenia's complex socio-political landscape. The Church's response has been to assert its independence from government interference, emphasizing the constitutional separation of Church and state, although the AAC is recognized as a national Church (BBC).
Conclusion
The claim that Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan called for the resignation of Church leader Karekin II over alleged violations of celibacy is True. This assertion is supported by multiple credible news sources that report Pashinyan's direct accusations and the subsequent political implications of this confrontation. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between Armenia's government and its influential Church, which has become a focal point of political dissent.
Sources
- Armenia's PM accuses head of Church of fathering child in febrile ... BBC
- Armenian authorities arrest an archbishop and accuse him of plotting ... AP News
- Pashinyan Demands Catholicos Karekin II's Resignation Asbarez
- Pashinyan's real interest is replacing Karekin II, not clergy celibacy Armenian Weekly
