New mayor to be tough with heads of district administrations

Mayor-elect Karen Karapetyan promised to be tough with the heads of Yerevan's district administrations, conducting in the meantime a flexible human resource policy.

"There are no plans for massive dismissals for now. But there will be stricter rules and requirements for the heads of district administration, and only those who comply with them will remain in office," he told a news conference on Friday.

Karapetyan promised that both Yerevan residents and tourists will be satisfied with the new municipal administration system.
He also spoke about his plans to introduce his new programs and urban development projects, promising to conduct transparent activities with the public, municipality staff and the Council of Elders.

Asked by Tert.am about his new appointment, he said he didn't expect to be nominated for Yerevan mayor. He also expressed his positive attitude to the Republican Party, adding in the meantime that he is a non-partisan and has no plans to join the party's ranks at present.
Karapetyan also appreciated former mayor Gagik Beglaryan's efforts to improve the capital.

"I find Gagik Bgelaryan's efforts very successful. Anyone assuming the duties of mayor must probably continue the activities of his predecessor," he said.

As former general director of Hayrusgazard company, he also praised the company, considering it one of Armenia's best enterprises.

"I think anyone holding a managing position needs from time to time to change his field to take a fresh glance at things," he said.
Karapetyan also confirmed the reports on the plans to appoint Hayrusgazard Deputy Assistant Vardan Harutyunyan to the post of general director.