874.00/11–1545: Telegram
The United States Representative in Bulgaria (Barnes) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 17—6:17 a.m.]
689. FF (Fatherland Front) newspaper carries ominous news this morning that “the People’s Militia have discovered that certain opposition elements are preparing excesses for November 18 in hopes of hindering elections by starting disorders. The People’s Militia warns that the severest measures will be taken against those who disturb the peace.” This item smacks of a pre-arranged alibi.
Petkov’s newspaper announces this morning that use of force to break up opposition political meetings in provinces has so increased of late that permanent committee of the Agrarian National Union has decided to cancel all scheduled political meetings throughout country and to convene no further meetings until freedom of speech, conscience and assembly reestablished.
Repeated to Moscow as 307.