On May 28, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Supreme Body of Armenia held a series of solemn events marking the 107th anniversary of the founding of the First Republic of Armenia. The commemorations began with a flower-laying ceremony at the statue of Aram Manukyan, a founding figure of the republic, and culminated in a significant gathering at the Sardarapat Memorial Complex.
Speaking at Sardarapat, Ishkhan Saghatelyan, representative of the ARF Supreme Body of Armenia, congratulated the Armenian people on the anniversary of the Battle of Sardarapat and the establishment of independent statehood. “May 28 is not only a day to remember the past, but also a moment to draw lessons for the present and choose the right strategy for the national struggle,” he said.
ARF Bureau member Armen Rustamyan also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the First Republic and the meaning of the day’s commemorative events. In particular, he spoke to new members of the ARF who were taking their official oath.
“Dear new members, this oath is the most meaningful and transformative moment in the life of every Dashnaktsutyun member,” Rustamyan stated. “By taking this oath, you are joining not only the active ranks of our organization, but also becoming part of a legacy carried by our martyrs and national heroes. You are committing to live first and foremost for the homeland and our people.”
Rustamyan introduced the symbolic items used in the oath-taking—artifacts embodying Armenia’s historic struggles and victories—including the ARF flag raised at Sardarapat, the banner from Shushi, the party’s founding charter, and the Mauser of General Andranik. “By swearing upon these, you must embrace the spirit of our victorious struggle and become a torchbearer of our ideas, devotion, and courage,” he said.
The ceremony concluded with approximately 55 new members taking their oath, pledging loyalty to the ARF’s mission and readiness to serve the Armenian cause, even at the cost of their lives.
Following the formal proceedings, a communal gathering was held at the memorial site, where traditional patriotic songs were sung in celebration. The event served as both a remembrance of past victories and a reaffirmation of the ARF’s enduring commitment to the Armenian nation.
