By Alexander Krassimirov
March 10 – Bulgaria’s Lokomotiv Plovdiv have released their administrative director, Atanas Uzunov, accusing him of “political games”. The board of Lokomotiv claims that he used his official position to “influence the supporters of the club and they participate in political actions against the government of country.”
Uzunov is an adviser to the GERB political party, which is led by the former Bulgaria prime minister Boyko Borisov.
“It is clear that under the current legal chosen authority, the life in the country is improving. We are not against the government and want the name of the club to be associated only with sports and being away from the political struggles,” said a official club statement.
The statement also said that the club “does not want another battle, except that of the sports field.
“As a sports club we do not want the name of Lokomotiv Plovdiv to be involved in political activities by politically engaged person as Atanas Uzunov.”
The board felt that by introducing politics into the club, it could split supporters who they want united behind the team and no embroiled in party politics.
Uzunov said: “I had a meeting with the owner of the club Konstantin Dinev and we decided it was better (for me) to leave in order not to create political problems.
“Yes, I do not deny I am GERB’s advisor and will not let anyone to have pressure on me. I will remain a member of the GERB party and councilor of GERB. At the moment my work is administrative and am familiar with the laws.
“I have a right to go on a paid holiday, which starts today. After that I will leave the club normally and officially. Each of the fans regardless of which club they support has the right to political bias. Whether the fans of Lokomotiv are GERB, BSP or any other party, I cannot effect them.”
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