site.btaAll Voting Machines to Undergo Software Check, E-Governance Minister Urges Voters to Use Machines

The software code of 100% of the installed voting machines will be verified for the upcoming elections, up from the previous 30%, caretaker Electronic Governance Minister George Sharkov, who is also coordinator of the election process, told a briefing here on Wednesday. To carry out the checks, the Ministry will rely on an additional team of around 60 technical experts from the State administration, he added.

Sharkov stressed that machine voting guarantees fair results, while the video surveillance system has already proven to be an important tool for detecting irregularities. He urged citizens to vote by machine wherever possible.

Sharkov said that the Electronic Governance Ministry has published for public consultation the methodology for certifying the compliance of voting machines, noting that the consultation period runs until March 20. He added that since the beginning of the week, six electronic services for voters have also been available through the EGOV.BG portal and the Ministry’s website.

Regarding video surveillance, Sharkov said the system will provide live streaming from all polling stations in the country. Improvements include more stable device connectivity, preliminary technical inspection of the phones used, centralized monitoring of device activity, and the possibility of rapid response through regional coordinators.

Sharkov said further that preparations for sending voting machines abroad are proceeding according to plan. The machines are expected to be delivered to the Foreign Ministry around April 8 or 9 to allow sufficient time for organizing the voting process abroad, including ahead of the Easter holidays.

The Interior Ministry will open a 24-hour hotline for reporting violations or crimes related to the election process. The Minister called on citizens to actively report suspected irregularities.