Bulgarians rally for election reforms

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SOFIA, Bulgaria, March 3 (UPI) -- Protesters blocked streets in the Bulgarian capital Sofia Sunday in a mass demonstration over the political and economic climate, officials said.

Riot police were out in force around the Eagles' Bridge, a key intersection that was closed off by protesters demanding Parliament adopt election reforms they say will increase the political participation of the general population, the Sofia news agency said.

There were no incidents of violence in the early goings as a parade of speakers also railed against high utility bills, pension problems and the perceived power of business monopolies.

Sofia said there were questions raised on the streets as to who was behind the rally, which took place on Bulgaria's Liberation Day holiday. Some participants pointed out there were plans for a national conference March 9 in Sofia's new convention center and questioned who might be bankrolling it.