There is a risk that some of the events within the Botev Days in Vratsa will not take place due to a lack of funds and lack of state support. This was announced to journalists by Mayor Kalin Kamenov.
“We have made a wonderful program with many initiatives, but with one twelfth of the budget there is a real risk that a large part of them will not be implemented“, explained Kamenov, quoted by dariknews.bg.
According to him, the total plan-account for the celebrations amounts to about 80 thousand euros, and an additional letter has been received from the Bulgarian National Television requesting 10 thousand euros for broadcasting the rally-dawn on June 1. “This is a precedent – state television to ask for funds for an initiative under the patronage of the president“, commented Kamenov.
He announced that a letter had already been sent to the Council of Ministers requesting financial support. “I would be glad to receive the necessary support, considering that this year we are marking 150 years since the death of Hristo Botev and his chetniks“, Kamenov also said, adding that he was impressed by the financial support provided by the caretaker government for the celebrations for the 150th anniversary of the April Uprising.
Despite being denied state funding for the repair of the Okolchitsa monument, the Municipality, with the assistance of private companies, has carried out repair work, including restoring the lighting, installing video surveillance and providing internet, Kamenov also said.
He also drew attention to the poor condition of the Drama and Puppet Theater building – Vratsa, where some of the events are traditionally held. “There are serious leaks and there is a risk that the June 1st performance will be held under extremely difficult conditions. About 150 thousand euros are needed to repair the roof“, the mayor said.
“It is important for the state to intervene when needed. Botev's feat has its role on the path to Bulgaria's freedom and deserves to be celebrated“, Kalin Kamenov also said. He expressed hope that a positive response will be received from state institutions as soon as possible, so that the Botev Days program can be implemented in its entirety.
“I would be very happy if the candidates for national representatives also came out with their support, regardless of political differences. Because most likely by then there will already be many elected representatives from the Vratsa region and beyond who will be present on June 1st," explained the mayor of Vratsa, Kalin Kamenov.