VP Iotova: Importance of Local Elections for Future of Government Should Not Be Exaggerated

UPDATED VP Iotova: Importance of Local Elections for Future of Government Should Not Be Exaggerated

Metodi Yordanov, Matey Todorov

Vice President Iliana Iotova (BTA Photo)

Troyan, Central Bulgaria,

23.09.2023 13:40 | UPDATED 23.09.2023 16:36

(BTA)

“We hear from politicians, MPs and various political analysts that to a large extent the result of the local elections will determine whether this government will continue to exist or not. I am not inclined to exaggerate the significance of the local elections in this particular direction. The Constitution prescribes a true separation of powers,” Vice President Iliana Iotova told BTA at the opening of the 30th edition of the Bulgarian Plum Festival in Troyan.

She defined the local elections as the most important elections for Bulgaria because "all the problems that people have, first of all, come down to the mayor, to the municipal council and that is why we say that these elections are to a large extent also majoritarian."

Iotova added that the presidential institution stands behind the local authorities. "It is our wish that there be a change in the legislative framework so that there is even more serious decentralisation of municipalities and that a large part of the taxes remain in the municipalities so that local administrations can actually develop their cities, regions and entire districts," the Vice President said.

She called on Bulgarian citizens to actively participate in local elections because the development of towns, villages and Bulgaria as a whole depends on it.

"In today's troubled world, traditional Bulgarian festivals give us a sense of security and a strong connection to our roots, from which we draw strength to cope with the difficulties," Iotova said during the opening of the Plum Festival's 30th anniversary edition, the President's press secretariat reported.

"Troyan is becoming the capital of colours, traditions, talent, future and youth, of the innate desire for prosperity. Bulgarian craftsmen, producers and artists meet here. The festival has already gained international fame," the Vice President said.

/MT/