Княжеските пълномощия и задачите на II Велико народно събрание (1881 г.)
The Competences of the Prince and the Tasks of the Second Grand National Assembly (1881)

Summary/Abstract: Somewhat strange, in view of the competences indicated in the Turnovo Constitution, were the goals and tasks of the Second Grand National Assembly convened in Svishtov on July 1, 1881. The Head of State wanted the Assembly to pass judgment on the question of suspending the Constitution. Such a possibility was not embodied in the fundamental law: in it existed only the possibility of a change and that in conditions and a way quite different from the method of action of Prince Alexander I Battening. What could the Prince do? He was striving for something that was outside his rights and duties. In almost all cases his actions were outside the law. For this reason he wanted the Grand National Assembly convened; in his view it was the only legislative and constituent body which could help him. All the actions of the Head of State from April 27 to July 1, 1881 were but an attempt at observing the Constitution and the laws but not their actual implementation. The Prime Minister General Ernrot proceeded in the same way. It was counted chiefly on the general public being not familiar with the constitutional matter. The laws in force in the country were adapted according to what an extent they met the interests of the Prince and his government. With these preparations in advance, the Grand National Assembly, which under the Constitution was the supreme representation of the people, proved an impersonal performer of the will of the Head of State. Therefore without any problems and with complete unanimity were approve the suspension of the Constitution and the unlimited competences, demanded by Alexander Battening, to issue ukases having the force of laws.

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