Armenian Parliament Descends into Chaos as MPs Clash Over Controversial Government Proposal

Armenia’s parliament descended into extraordinary scenes of violence after a heated exchange of insults between government and opposition lawmakers erupted into a mass physical fight, with MPs trading punches, throwing chairs and hurling objects across the parliamentary chamber.

The dramatic confrontation took place on October 29 during a parliamentary debate over the appointment of a member to the country’s Audit Chamber. What began as a political argument quickly spiralled out of control, exposing deep divisions between Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s ruling Civil Contract party and the opposition Strong Armenia faction.

The dispute was triggered by remarks from ruling-party lawmaker Taron Chakhoyan, who targeted opposition leader Narek Karapetyan over a controversial proposal previously associated with his cousin, Sargis Karapetyan. The idea involved establishing a so-called “Ministry of Sex” to address women’s dissatisfaction, a suggestion that had sparked widespread criticism and ridicule in Armenia.

Chakhoyan reminded Karapetyan that his family had not apologised for the controversial comments, prompting an angry response from the opposition leader. The verbal confrontation intensified as lawmakers began shouting at one another before several MPs left their seats and moved towards the podium.

Within moments, the chamber turned into a scene of chaos. Lawmakers were seen pushing, grabbing and punching one another as colleagues attempted to separate the fighting groups. In one particularly shocking moment, Deputy Speaker Vahagn Aleksanyan was filmed throwing a chair towards opposition lawmakers.

The violence continued for several minutes, with reports and video footage showing opposition MP Andranik Gevorgyan with a bleeding nose and another lawmaker with torn clothing. Parliamentary security officers were eventually called in after Speaker Ruben Rubinyan announced a recess. An ambulance was also dispatched to the building, although the medical response was later cancelled.

The incident drew further controversy after Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan publicly defended members of his ruling party, saying he supported their actions. He also made threatening remarks about breaking the arms of anyone who attacked government lawmakers, adding to concerns about the political atmosphere in the country.

Meanwhile, Armenia’s Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan criticised the violence, warning that such behaviour by elected officials risks normalising aggression throughout society.

The confrontation was reportedly the third major parliamentary brawl in Armenia within a month, highlighting the growing hostility between rival political factions.

The extraordinary scenes have attracted international attention, raising serious questions about political accountability, parliamentary discipline and the ability of elected representatives to resolve disagreements through democratic debate rather than physical confrontation.