Serzh Sarkisian has been sworn in for a second term as Armenia's president in the capital, Yerevan, amid an opposition challenge to the credibility of his reelection. Sarkisian's main challenger in the February vote, Raffi Hovannisian, held what he had called an "alternative inauguration." Thousands of Hovannisian's supporters tried to march to a memorial using an avenue where the presidential palace is also located. They were blocked by police cordons.
Dual Inaugurations In Yerevan As Opposition Scuffles With Police
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Armenian President Serzh Sarkisian (center) during his inauguration ceremony in Yerevan
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President Serzh Sarkisian during his inauguration ceremony
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Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II blesses President Serzh Sarkisian during his inauguration ceremony.
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Raffi Hovannisian kisses an Armenian flag during the opposition rally.
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Raffi Hovannisian addresses his supporters during the rally in Yerevan.
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Riot police detain young opposition activists in Yerevan.
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Riot police confront opposition leader Raffi Hovannisian in Yerevan.
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One of the supporters of opposition leader Raffi Hovannisian shouts during the rally against President Serzh Sarkisian's victory.
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Clashes and arrests after Raffi Hovannisian's rally.
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Armen Martirosian of Armenia's Heritage party is detained by police while participating in the opposition rally.
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Riot police confront opposition protesters in Yerevan.
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Supporters of opposition leader Raffi Hovannisian rally against President Serzh Sarkisian's victory in elections in Yerevan.