site.btaIndependent MP Candidate Calls Smolyan Cemetery Expansion "Insane"

Todor Batkov, an independent parliamentary candidate from Smolyan 22nd Constituency, is alarmed by what he calls "the insanity" of the local authorities, who spent BGN 2.8 million in public money on the expansion of a cemetery without a road and with 82 steps. The cemetery, located in the Raykovo district of Smolyan, is difficult to access due to the steep slope and challenging terrain, Batkov said at a campaign meeting with local residents, as quoted by his nomination committee on Wednesday.

"When we buried my son here, they almost dropped him at the top of the steps. I have no idea how gravestones will be installed," said Maria Staykova, an 80-year-old local resident.

Batkov added that the slope of the cemetery exceeds 60 degrees. "This is madness by the municipal authorities. Huge amounts of money are being spent, but there is no effect," he said.

During the meeting, issues related to economic development, infrastructure, the demographic crisis and the need for strong representation of the people of the Rhodope Mountains in the National Assembly were raised.