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Voice of America
May 5 2012
Exploding Balloons Injure 144 at Election Rally in Armenia
VOA News
Officials in Armenia say at least 144 people were injured Friday when
gas-filled balloons exploded at an election campaign concert in the
Armenian capital Yerevan.
Most of the people suffered burns when many promotional balloons burst
into flames at a concert staged by the ruling Republican Party of
Armenia in Yerevan's central Republic Square.
Health Minister Harutiun Kushkian told reporters no one's life is in danger.
It was not immediately clear what caused the explosions, but some
reports say it could have been caused by a cigarette lit too closely
to the balloons.
The incident marred a largely calm election campaign.
President Serzh Sarkisyan promised a full investigation.
Tens of thousands have gathered in Yerevan ahead of Sunday's
parliamentary election, which is largely seen as a test of democracy
for President Sarkisyan, the winner of the disputed 2008 election.
May 5 2012
Exploding Balloons Injure 144 at Election Rally in Armenia
VOA News
Officials in Armenia say at least 144 people were injured Friday when
gas-filled balloons exploded at an election campaign concert in the
Armenian capital Yerevan.
Most of the people suffered burns when many promotional balloons burst
into flames at a concert staged by the ruling Republican Party of
Armenia in Yerevan's central Republic Square.
Health Minister Harutiun Kushkian told reporters no one's life is in danger.
It was not immediately clear what caused the explosions, but some
reports say it could have been caused by a cigarette lit too closely
to the balloons.
The incident marred a largely calm election campaign.
President Serzh Sarkisyan promised a full investigation.
Tens of thousands have gathered in Yerevan ahead of Sunday's
parliamentary election, which is largely seen as a test of democracy
for President Sarkisyan, the winner of the disputed 2008 election.