site.btaRestricting Right of Bulgarians Abroad to Vote Is Restriction of Democratic Rights - Rumen Radev

“The political status quo has decided to restrict the ability of our compatriots abroad to vote. This is yet another step in its attempts to preserve its power by limiting democratic rights," former president Rumen Radev wrote on Facebook in connection with the amendments to the Election Code adopted on Thursday.

“The decision of the parliament also exposes any claim that it is trying to preserve and strengthen the ties and sense of community with Bulgarians abroad. But elections are coming. It is up to us to reclaim our rights. To defend democracy,” Radev further said.

On Thursday night, Parliament adopted at second reading amendments to the Election Code, according to which, in non-EU countries there may be up to 20 polling stations outside of Bulgarian diplomatic and consular missions.