Armenia's Political Turmoil: PM Accuses Church Leader of Celibacy Breach

In a dramatic escalation of political friction, Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has accused the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church of fathering a child, challenging the Church's moral authority and risking further division within an already polarized society. The clash comes amidst ongoing peace negotiations with Azerbaijan following a recent conflict.

In a tumultuous clash that has underscored deep political divides in Armenia, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has made severe allegations against the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC), Catholicos Karekin II. In an unexpected departure from his previously held position of non-interference in religious matters, Pashinyan suggested that Karekin, accused of breaking his vow of celibacy, should resign from his post. Pashinyan’s provocative remarks included, “Your Grace, go fool around with your uncle's wife. What do you want from me?” creating a stir in both political and religious circles.

Until this incident, the AAC and the government managed a coexistence, but the escalating animosity threatens to sever their tenuous relationship. As society splits further along political lines, the ramifications could have serious implications for the upcoming elections scheduled for June 2026. Reacting to the prime minister's claims, which remain unsubstantiated, opposition parties and former presidents stood resolutely in defense of the Church, fearing the fallout from such allegations could sway public sentiment.

Pashinyan's government has been under strain since Armenia’s defeat in the 2020 war against Azerbaijan, which has seen the Church vocalizing calls for political accountability. Karekin II's recent insistence on the rights of displaced Armenians from Nagorno-Karabakh has sparked concern among Pashinyan's supporters, indicating frictions within the peace dialogue with Azerbaijan. The Prime Minister's push for a more definitive peace treaty clashes with the echoing demands of nationalistic factions, complicating an already fragile political landscape.

Moreover, an emerging concern has arisen from the Church’s influence among opposition factions. Analysts speculate that Pashinyan's unprecedented attacks may serve as a tactical preemptive strike ahead of the essential elections, as discontent with government operations grows.

The Church’s popularity, despite the allegations against its leader, continues to thrive, fueled by longstanding grievances over church governance and accusations circling around the exploitation of diaspora parishes. The ramifications of Pashinyan’s intervention in ecclesiastical matters are grave, potentially inflaming societal rifts exacerbated by geopolitical pressures and historical resentments.

Amidst these tensions, a powerful supporter of the Church, Russian-Armenian billionaire Samvel Karapetyan, found himself at odds with the government, which quickly moved against him in response to his call for defense of the Church. As the political climate intensifies, the implications of this unraveling saga extend beyond Armenia's borders, igniting concerns over the future of regional stability in the South Caucasus. As divisions deepen, both the Church and Pashinyan’s administration must navigate this precarious landscape with the potential for far-reaching consequences.