Bulgaria to Hold Presidential, Municipal Elections Oct 23

Bulgarian President Georgi Parvanov giving a lecture at the National Military Academy. Photo by President.bg

Bulgarian President Georgi Parvanov has officially signed a decree scheduling presidential and municipal elections in the country for October 23.

October 23 was the date favored by ruling center-right GERB party and voted as recommended by Parliament last week.

Nevertheless the Bulgarian Constitution has it that it is the President who has the power to schedule elections.

Monday President Parvanov chose to agree with the date suggested by Parliament.

In the initial consultations, main opposition party, the Bulgarian Socialist Party, had argued October 23 is too early after summer holiday season for a serious campaign to take place, and requested November 13 as an alternative.

On October 23 Bulgarians will vote both for their President, an institution with no direct executive or legislative power, but of pivotal significance for Bulgarian political life, and for mayors and town councillors across the country.

Bulgarian President Georgi Parvanov's second and constitutionally last term in office expires January 2012.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!