One of Bulgaria's top boxers, Detelin Dalakliev, has been included in the ballot of the left-wing Bulgarian Socialist Party, BSP, from the civil quota, for the May 12 snap general elections.

His election bid, however, soon became marred by reports from the formerly-ruling centrist Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria party, GERB, that the 2009 World Champion has been their member since March 12, 2009, and never discontinued the membership.

Speaking for Bulgarian 24 Chassa (24 Hours) daily, Dalakliev says he has attended only once a meeting of GERB's local branch in the northern city of Pleven, when the structure has been founded, and most likely was entered in the lists then as a popular Pleven resident.

"I wonder why they never approached me in four years and I have never paid any membership fees," the boxer says.

He has already cancelled his GERB affiliation.

The local branch reported they planned to expel him anyway, but did not provide information on his membership fees.

Dalkliev further voices utter disappointment from the fact he has not been allowed Saturday to bestow awards to winners in a sports event in the city.

"I understood the municipal leaders, who are from GERB, became angry that I am running on BSP's ticket. The organizers stopped me; they did not let me walk on the stage. I am a well-known competitor; my trophies and medals are in the Hall of Fame. Why mix politics and sports; they don't have much in common? And everyone is entitled to their own choice," the boxer stresses.

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