Armenia`s Justice Ministry denies: Will this dispel the fears of  citizens and businesses

ArmInfo. The Ministry of Justice of Armenia refutes the  information circulating on social networks  that under the proposed amendments to the Administrative Procedure Code of the Republic of Armenia, citizens will be only be able to challenge fines  after paying them. Tigran Keyan, a member of the Board of the Association of Small and Medium Entrepreneurs, believes that  the ministry's statements validate the concerns raised and indicate the potential risks of the draft.

It should be noted that, based on the rationale provided in the  document, the Ministry of Justice, particularly,  is suggesting that  Article 83 of the Administrative Procedure Code of the Republic of  Armenia be deemed invalid. The latter states that the filing of a   challenge suspends the execution of the disputed administrative act  until a judicial decision is made on the case. Legal experts and  business representatives have argued that the proposed changes are  unconstitutional and infringe upon the principle of the presumption  of innocence.

The Ministry of Justice has clarified that their proposed amendments   only aim to introduce an additional petition for securing the claim.  the Ministry explained. , the Ministry of Justice of Armenia assures.

Meanwhile, Tigran Keyan points out that with its explanation, the  Ministry acknowledges that: 1) If the court denies the request for a  security measure, the administrative act  remains in effect, and the  individual must pay the fine, regardless of any legal challenges. 2)  Even if the court ultimately rules in favor of the individual, the  fine may only be refunded after the trial. 3) Essentially,  individuals are a key opportunity to defend their rights, as they are  required to pay the fine upfront and then contest its legality.

Keyan posted on his Facebook page.