Speaking at a ceremony marking the 150th anniversary of the April Uprising, President Iliana Iotova stated that the historical event embodied the light of the National Revival through choice and self-sacrifice, rather than mere despair. The President noted that the “rebellious spirit” of the cause, which perpetually seeks freedom and justice, remains active today. During the All-Bulgarian Solemn Assembly for the 150th anniversary, which was held under the President’s patronage, Iotova emphasized the need for Bulgarians to align themselves with the ideals of the historical figures.
She suggested that the events of the April Uprising assist Bulgarians in self-understanding, noting that the names of the heroes serve as benchmarks for distinguishing good from evil. The President asserted that the ancestors’ pursuit of freedom is particularly relevant at the current juncture of national, European, and global history. Addressing the large attendance at the celebration, Iotova declared the occasion a national holiday.
She explained that the assembly was specifically convened at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, positing that intellectual pursuits are the source of both awakening and rebellion. The President recounted that the participants in the April Uprising championed the ideal of a pure republic, suggesting that moments where the desire for freedom outweighs fear are historically significant. Earlier in the day, the President participated in a memorial service for the victims of the April Uprising at the St.
Alexander Nevsky Memorial Cathedral. From this service, she and Patriarch Daniil led a procession to the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, accompanied by academic representatives.
Topics: #april #uprising #president
It’s interesting to hear the president frame the historical uprising in terms of choice and self-sacrifice.