On November 13, Armenia’s Public Services Regulatory Commission (PSRC) rejected a recusal motion submitted by representatives of “Tashir Capital” against PSRC Chairman Mesrop Mesropyan. The company had argued that Mesropyan was biased and should not take part in the proceedings regarding the possible suspension of Electric Networks of Armenia’s (ENA) license.
During the hearing, Tashir’s legal representative, Vardan Aloyan, presented several arguments, including Mesropyan’s membership in the ruling Civil Contract party since 2013, his appointment as Kotayk governor by the current authorities in 2020, and his familial ties to Sasun Mikayelyan, chairman of the Yerkrapah Volunteer Union.
Following a recess to review the motion, the commission held a vote and concluded that the cited factors were insufficient to question Mesropyan’s impartiality.
The hearing continues on whether to suspend License №0092 granted to ENA. The issue remains politically and legally charged, with broader implications for Armenia’s energy sector.
On June 18, 2025, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan declared it was time to nationalize ENA. In July, parliament passed a legislative package granting the PSRC sweeping powers, including preventive measures even before formal proceedings.
On July 18, PSRC Chair Mesropyan appointed Romanos Petrosyan as ENA’s temporary administrator. Tashir Capital has since challenged both the appointment and the license suspension process in international arbitration, including at the Stockholm court.
ENA is Armenia’s largest power distribution company and has been owned by Samvel Karapetyan’s Tashir Capital group since 2016.
