Introduction of New Ordinances and Decrees
Following the communist coup on September 9, 1944, the new regime in Bulgaria implemented a series of ordinances and decrees that drastically altered the country's social, political, and legal landscapes. These measures were designed to reward supporters of the new regime while simultaneously restricting the rights of those who were deemed to oppose it.
One of the early examples of these changes was the Ordinance for the Temporary Cancellation of Qualifications on October 12, 1944. This ordinance allowed the regime to bypass existing job qualification requirements, enabling the appointment of loyal supporters to state positions regardless of their professional background or educational qualifications. This decree effectively undermined meritocracy in favor of political loyalty Istanbul Daily Tour.
Privileges for Regime Supporters
The regime also issued ordinances to grant privileges to its supporters. On October 24, 1944, an ordinance was passed allowing members of the Writers' Union, even those without university degrees, to be appointed to state, municipal, or public positions that typically required higher education. This ordinance demonstrated the regime's prioritization of ideological alignment over competence, further entrenching its power.
Another ordinance, issued on April 29, 1945, aimed to support those who had fought against fascism. The Ordinance to Support Those Who Suffered During Their Struggle Against Fascism and for the People's Freedom provided benefits and privileges to individuals who had been active in the anti-fascist movement. While this may have appeared as a benevolent gesture, it was, in reality, a strategic move to consolidate support by rewarding those loyal to the communist cause.
Repression of Former Regime Members
In contrast, the new government enacted laws that severely punished individuals associated with the previous regime. On January 14, 1948, an act was enforced that deprived citizens involved in so-called "fascist activities" of their pensions. This act targeted those who had been convicted by the People's Tribunal or who were suspected of involvement in the fascist regime, stripping them of their retirement benefits. Even those who had simply disappeared or were presumed guilty by association faced the loss of their pensions. The retirement system thus became another tool of repression, penalizing citizens who had dutifully paid their social security dues but were now deemed enemies of the state.
Restructuring of the Legal and Administrative Systems
The repressive measures extended into the legal and administrative systems as well. The entire administration was overhauled, with former guerrillas, political prisoners, and party functionaries—many lacking the necessary education and experience—being appointed as judges and investigators. This restructuring effectively dismantled the concept of an independent legal system in Bulgaria. Courts and administrative bodies were no longer impartial institutions but rather instruments of the Communist Party and the Fatherland Front committees.
This complete subjugation of the legal system to the whims of the party meant that justice was no longer administered fairly or independently. The courts became a means of enforcing the regime's policies, suppressing dissent, and legitimizing the repression of political opponents.
Conclusion
The post-1944 ordinances and decrees introduced by the Bulgarian communist regime were key to establishing and maintaining totalitarian control over the country. By granting privileges to supporters and severely limiting the rights of others, the regime created a society where loyalty to the party was the ultimate qualification. The restructuring of the legal and administrative systems ensured that the Communist Party held absolute power, with no room for opposition or independent thought. These actions laid the groundwork for decades of repression, fear, and authoritarian rule in Bulgaria.
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