CEC: Problems with Voting Machines and Preparation for the April 19 Elections

Currently, there are around 100 – 150 voting machines that need parts replaced, said the Deputy Chairman of the Central Election Commission (CEC), Rositsa Mateva. In addition, there are about 1000 machines that are missing parts from their equipment. Mateva specified that the machines are computers and are working without problems. The warranty has nothing to do with their operation.

There are enough voting machines - 12,837. For the elections, 9354 will be used in the country and about 120–150 abroad. The exact number of polling stations outside the country is not yet clear, as the deadline for submitting applications is March 24. After that, the sections will be determined, including those abroad.

In the Middle East, there will likely be no polling stations. The applications for voting abroad are currently around 16,000. Sections outside the EU are limited (20 sections), and there will be a maximum number of sections in diplomatic and consular missions.

“Ciela Norma” AD won the public procurement for the machines, despite the higher price. After negotiations, it was reduced.

Today, the coalitions can submit applications to change their composition or name. The deadline for submitting candidate lists is March 17. The mayors must hold consultations for the section election commissions. The drawing of lots for the numbers on the ballot paper is on March 18. The CEC has determined the dimensions of the voting screens.