US Ambassador Nancy McEldowney has called on all political parties in Bulgaria to implement the additional measures proposed by the Integrity Pact for Independent and Democratic Vote in Bulgaria, especially the provisions for enhanced transparency of political party financing.
Many parties in Bulgaria signed up to the document, launched by non-governmental organizations, yet most of the measures, envisaged by it were not included in the legislation dealing with the elections. Among these provisions were the proposal to set up regional counting centers and voting outside the dark voting booth.
According to Ambassador McEldowney if adopted these measures will "boost confidence in the electoral system and serve the best interests of Bulgaria's citizens and democratic institutions".
The ambassador welcomed the adoption of legislation that increases the penalties for vote buying. In her words this is "a serious crime".