Armen Rustamian, a member of the ARF Supreme Council, told the thousands gathered in Freedom Square that they had overcome their fears and were capable of achieving anything they so desired.

“For the past few days, the crowds at Freedom Square were waiting for, had wanted to see the ARF. We are now here with you. As we declared, the ARF stands with the people,” Rustamian told the crowds who applauded in response.

Rustamian said that the people proved on February 18 that they had enough of the stifling status-quo and that their struggle for change could not be squashed any longer.

“On February 18 you proved that the citizens of Armenia are worthy of a better life and government. This was an uprising against injustice, hopelessness and the exodus,” Rustamian declared.

He argued that the people knew better than anyone else what transpired on February 18, despite the evaluations to the contrary of various international organizations and observers.

“Those who don’t see or comprehend what took place merely deride our people. Sadly, this is exactly what the authorities in Armenia are doing today,” Rustamian said.

The ARF leader described the rally as the first step down a long and difficult road that would eventually return power to the people.

“If we remain united and determined and ready to struggle, that victory will not be long in coming. Our people glimpsed a ray of hope in this election and Raffi embodies that hope.” Rustamian said

He said that Hovannisian had met with the ARF leadership and that they has supported following the legal, constitutional road towards achieving tangible results.

“The ARF is an independent and responsible party. We have our political agenda. This movement is being waged in the name of each and every citizen of Armenia - for the future of Armenia, for Artsakh and for the consolidation of all Armenia forces. We see no internal enemy. Our wish is to see a free, just, democratic and strong Armenia.”