A change needs to be made to the model of functioning of Bulgarian parties, said Monday President Georgi Purvanov in the western town of Pernik. In his words, Bulgaria is into the 20th year of its transition, from which point many of the model's inherent flaws can be seen. According to the Head of State, the underlying problem is the way parties are structured.

The fact that there are over 300 parties in Bulgaria, means that anyone can establish a party, which to exploit for personal, business or other benefits.

The President stressed that strict rules are needed regarding party registration and functioning. In his words, whereas at the start of the transition there was a clash of ideas, now there is a clash of individuals, often resulting in full-blown scandals, which in turn has a negative effect on the parties and their functioning.

Purvanov underscored that Bulgarian politics is suffering most from a deficit of ideas. Asked about the situation in the Bulgarian Socialist Party, the President said that the future change in the party has to be clearly defined as well as its opposition policies and face.

It is crucial that the BSP forms a strong working team, which will steer it out of the post-election crisis, according to Purvanov.

Purvanov was visiting Pernik to attend observances marking the town's day.

Source: BTA