Plovdiv, Bulgaria: The future of the iconic “Monument of the Soviet Army,” colloquially known as Alyosha, perched atop Bunardzhik Hill, hangs in the balance as a legal commission convenes to address proposals from political factions.
Yesterday’s meeting saw presentations from two key players, the “There Is Such a People” (ITN) party advocating for a local referendum and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DSB) advisers demanding the monument’s relocation to the Museum of Socialist Art by the end of 2024.
The legal commission, chaired by Slavi Georgiev from the civil quota of GERB, disclosed their intention to seek a comprehensive financial justification before making any decisions.
The commission aims to ascertain the technical feasibility of moving the imposing statue and evaluate the financial implications for the municipal budget.
In a statement, Mr Georgiev emphasized the need for expert insight, stating, “As a legal committee, we decided to first ask for an opinion from the relevant deputy mayor whether it is technically possible to carry out a procedure to move the monument to Alyosha and how much it would cost.”
The focus on financial aspects underscores the commission’s commitment to a thorough and informed decision-making process.
The monetary considerations will play a crucial role in shaping the fate of Alyosha, and the commission is determined to ensure transparency and fiscal responsibility.
ITN’s proposal revolves around a local referendum, with the question poised to the community: “Should the relocation of the Monument of the Soviet Army, better known as Alyosha, rising on the top of Bunardzhik Hill, be implemented?”
Residents will be given “yes” or “no,” allowing them a direct voice in the monument’s destiny.
On the other hand, DSB advisers advocate for a more decisive approach, urging the dismantling of Alyosha by the end of 2024 and its relocation to the Museum of Socialist Art.
The legal commission’s upcoming consultation with the deputy mayor will shed light on the logistical challenges and financial commitments associated with this proposition.
The commission’s commitment to a fair and inclusive process is evident, as Georgiev concluded, “After we find out how realistic the idea is and how much it will burden the municipal budget, a civil debate will have to be held about what should happen.”
As the legal commission delves into the technical and financial aspects, the future of Alyosha remains uncertain, awaiting the outcome of this thorough assessment and the subsequent civil debate that will shape the monument’s destiny.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members