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The Armenian authorities are “terrified” by the growing protest campaign, opposition leader Artur Vanetsyan said on Wednesday.

"The current authorities are terrified and in panic,” he told reporters at an opposition protest outside the presidential place on Baghramyan Avenue in central Yerevan.

Vanetsyan, who leads the opposition With Honor (Pativ Unem) parliamentary faction, claims the protest movement has attracted greater popular support.

“Baghramyan Avenue has been blocked for around 3 hours, but people in the cars stuck in traffic do not complain. Moreover, they welcome the actions," he said.

He accused the current Armenian leaders of using their position to enrich themselves instead of serving the country.

“They don't want to give up power, because for them it is a source of personal well-being and security. The government officials, including the man holding the prime minister’s office, are hiding behind police cordons," the opposition leader said.

Responding to the criticism that opposition MPs can raise issues concerning them in the National Assembly and get answers, Vanetsyan highlighted that he had never participated in Q&A sessions with the government.

"It makes no sense to take part in Q&A sessions with liars and irresponsible people. I have announced that I have nothing else to do in the parliament. I am standing with my people on the streets. I consider calls and requests to return to the parliament pointless," he noted.