BULGARIA PRESIDENT CALLS FOR POSITIVE, CONSTRUCTIVE CIVIC ENERGY

President Rosen Plevneliev has urged Bulgarians to give the caretaker government a chance to prove what it they are capable of, after which their achievements could be estimated objectively.

Bulgaria's caretaker government was appointed by Plevneliev on March 13 and is to prepare the ground for the early elections scheduled for May 12.

Stressing the short term in office of the caretaker government, he said that each of the ministers had a list of clearly defined tasks to accomplish, adding that it would be best for the people, not the President, to evaluate their performance.

As regards the upcoming early elections, Bulgaria's head of state commented that it was important to establish a Civil Board for Fair Elections at the prime minister's office as soon as possible.

Plevneliev, as cited by Darik radio, suggested that the civil board would guarantee a new approach to the organization of elections and eliminate any doubts about appointments.

"I am very pleased with the fact that the caretaker government undertook this commitment. All NGOs which have monitored past elections, expressed opinions, submitted tip-offs about violations, and have the necessary capacity and skills, are welcome on this civil board. I hope that it will start functioning very soon" Plevneliev stated.

He commented also on the connection between protesting citizens and political movements

"I am glad that the people realized that in order to change the country they need to acknowledge it first and achieve the transformation through its institutions. Today some of the protesters create parties and civic movements. This is all very good. Others are working together with the caretaker government. Public councils are being prepared. There will be still greater representation of civil society groups," he stated.

"Let us make sure that civic energy is constructive and positive," Bulgaria's head of state concluded.