Armenia's Political Landscape Shakes as PM Accuses Church Leader of Scandalous Affairs

The escalating feud between Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and the Armenian Apostolic Church's Catholicos Karekin II unfolds amid a controversial political backdrop, potentially impacting the nation’s 2026 elections and regional peace efforts.

Armenia's political climate has taken a tumultuous turn as Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan publicly accused a senior clergyman of the Armenian Apostolic Church (AAC) of being involved in scandalous activities, igniting accusations of infidelity and unfit leadership against Catholicos Karekin II. “Your Grace, go fool around with your uncle's wife. What do you want from me?” Pashinyan remarked in a startling departure from his previous commitment to keep government and Church affairs separate.

This sharp escalation in rhetoric threatens to deepen the already polarized Armenian society and could jeopardize unity ahead of the next elections in June 2026. The Prime Minister's call for Karekin's resignation — supported by allegations of fathering a child and breaking vows of celibacy — appears to be a strategic move, having no jurisdiction over Church governance. Pashinyan hinted that evidence of misconduct could be released, further stirring public interest.

Historically, the Armenian government and AAC have coexisted amid mutual respect, but the balance has shifted, particularly following Armenia's defeat in the 2020 conflict with Azerbaijan. Karekin II's calls for Pashinyan's resignation during that time marked the beginning of a fraying alliance. The Church has insisted on its autonomy, accusing the Prime Minister of trying to silence its voice.

In such a climate, Pashinyan’s recent outburst has drawn considerable criticism, rallying opposition parties and former presidents to support the Church. With accusations also targeted at other Church leaders, political analysts suggest the Prime Minister is deliberately attempting to undermine the Church's influence as it acts as a refuge for dissent against the government.

Despite the swirling controversies, the Armenian Church enjoys a degree of popularity among the populace, with its leaders historically maintaining a substantial role in socioeconomic matters. The accusations made by Pashinyan may, however, be viewed as an attempt to consolidate political power amidst growing opposition and calls for accountability from minority expressions within Armenian society.

As Armenia seeks to navigate the complexities of governance amidst pressures from both Azerbaijan and internal discontent, the fallout from this clash between political and spiritual authority will likely resonate for years to come. This ongoing saga may well have implications for regional peace negotiations and the prospect of long-term stability in the South Caucasus, a region fraught with ethnic and historical tensions.