Open-air trade organized outside Yerevan Municipality
Former street traders today held a protest action outside the Yerevan Municipality in an attempt to draw the attention of city officials.
They tried to sell fruit, vegetables, flowers and popcorn in baskets but police officers banned them from gathering at the site, saying they "were disturbing the municipality's routine."
The protesters say they were promised sales outlets at minimarkets but Mayor Karen Karapetyan failed to keep his promise.
"We demand normal working conditions and want the authorities to enable us to earn an honest livelihood," said Gayane Hovhannisyan.
They are angered by the fact that the sale of watermelon is allowed in the street whereas the municipality has placed a ban on the sale of fruit and vegetables.
"Many street traders have left abroad to earn money and keep their families. The money gathered from today's action will be sent to a needy family," said Alisa Khurshudyan.
