Bulgarian President Rumen Radev harshly criticized the anti-crisis measures undertaken by the Bulgarian government in a statement regarding the extension of the national lockdown until May 15. According to the President the measures voted by the government are to a great extend “insufficient” and even “inappropriate”.
President Radev fears that they may lead to social and economical crisis in the country. He was explicit in saying that the misery is no salvation from the coronavirus and highlighted that unemployment rates are climbing by the minute.
He appealed for restoring the normal way of living in the country with mutual efforts of institutions and citizens.
Radev stressed that the government should have more trust in the self-discipline demonstrated by the nation instead of relying on means of repression and censorship, including in the social networks. He agreed that the coronavirus pandemic calls for harsh measures but he also stressed that the Bulgarian nation is showing acceptance and understanding for the situation.
He believes that a new national loan of 10 billion Bulgarian levs is a harsh decision that will take years to pay off.
President Radev also believes that the governmental financial aid remains out of reach for small business and that the so-called “60-40” program is not effective. He believes that in the given situation the nation and the industry needs financial grants and not new debt.
Radev also sees weaknesses in the health care system that are for now being covered by the overworked medical staff.
Translation: Ivaylo Yotov
