ANALYSIS

Sofia

BAROMETER Political parties in

GEORGI KARASIMEONOV, PhD (Editor) Volume 17, Issue 3, July-September 2017

Recent months will be remembered for the foreign political activity of the government. The good neighbourhood treaty signed with Macedonia stands out as a particularly big success. It had been postponed for years by the Macedonian side. The treaty improves the perspec- tives for Macedonia’s integration into NATO and the EU, and Bulgaria demonstrated that it can be an important political factor in the region.

BSP started the new political season actively. It started putting forward alternative legisla- tion motions, which leads to focusing the political debate on issues that are important to this country. In this way BSP shows that it can be not only a strong opposition with a large parliamentary group in terms of numbers, but that it is trying to establish itself as a possible alternative to the government in the future.

GERB was rocked by several scandals during the summer months, which had a negative impact on the public image of the party. At the same time, the foreign political pro-activeness of the government and of PM compensated for the internal political negatives which GERB had to face over the past months. At this stage, GERB manages to maintain a relatively good dialogue with its coalition partners, despite the fact that the Deputy Prime Minister and NFSB leader Valery Simeonov mentioned that there had been problems in com- munication.

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BAROMETER / GEORGI KARASIMEONOV POLITICAL PARTIES IN BULGARIA Bulgaria

Contents 1. The political situation...... 2

1.1 Domestic policy...... 2

1.2 Foreign and European Policy...... 4

1.3. The refugee crisis...... 7

2. Status and development of the main political parties...... 7 2.1.Social-democratic and other center-left parties ...... 7 2.1.1. BSP...... 7 2.1.1.1 Condition...... 7 2.1.1.2 Recommendations ...... 8 2.1.2. ABV and Movement 21...... 8 2.1.2.1 Condition...... 8 2.1.2.2 Recommendations...... 9 2.1.3. The “Bulgarian Social Democrats” Party...... 10 2.1.3.1 Condition...... 10 2.1.3.2 Recommendations...... 10

2.2. Center-right parties ...... 810 2.2.1. GERB ...... 10 2.2.2. Reformist bloc ...... 11 2.2.3. DSB...... 12 2.2.4. „Yes, Bulgaria!“ ...... 12

2.3. Centrist parties ...... 12 2.3.1. MRF ...... 12 2.3.2. DOST ...... 14 2.3.3. „Volya“...... 14

2.4. Nationalist parties ...... 14 2.4.1. United Patriots ...... 14

2.5. Positions of the parties on foreign and European policy ...... 16

3. Public opinion ...... 16

4. Main conclusions and forecasts ...... 17

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1. Political Situation be elected by Parliament. The draft of the BSP provides for the es- 1.1 Domestic Policy tablishment of an Anti-Corruption Agency with In terms of internal politics, the summer investigation functions and for the Director months were calm, with no significant events thereof to be appointed by the President of the and political tension. In early September, at country. BSP had a series of meetings with the start of the new parliamentary session, all the President, the Prosecutor General and the political parties presented their priorities for Presidents of the Supreme Court of Cassation the forthcoming political season. The decla- and the Supreme Administrative Court. Presi- rations delivered from the parliamentary po- dent Radev expressed his readiness to appoint dium, which traditionally open each session of the Head of the anti-corruption body. Prosecu- the National Assembly, indicated that the main tor General Tsatsarov dubbed the draft contra- priority of all parliamentary groups will be the dictory as far as the investigation functions forthcoming presidency of the EU Council in are concerned, as they are the task of the Of- the first semester of next year. The opposition, fice of the Prosecutor and the Ministry of In- represented by BSP and MRF pledged their terior. The President of the Supreme Court of support for the efforts of the government in Cassation Lozan Panov stated that both drafts the imminent presidency. At the same time, – that of the government and that of BSP – do some key topics were outlined on which there not provide an answer to the major issue: why will be discord and political clashes. The main one needs a new body when there are already political debate where the parties in power and institutions tasked with countering corruption. the opposition will differ is the voting on the Sources from GERB stated that the Presi- budget for next year. Also, passing the new dent may not appoint the head of the new anti- anti-corruption act will be subject to serious corruption body, because it is only the National political contradictions. Assembly that can have an efficient oversight A highlight of the new parliamentary ses- on the operation of that body. sion will be the promulgation of a new Anti- After having elected the professional Corruption Act as per recommendation of one quota of the new Supreme Judicial Council in of the recent EC reports under the Coopera- the summer, as soon as the new parliamen- tion and Verification Mechanism. This issue tary session opened, the National Assembly clashed two drafts for an act – that of the elected the members in the parliamentary government, supported by the majority in the quota. Although the parties in power said that National Assembly, and that of the BSP. The the procedure was public and transparent, a two drafts are based on a different way of number of NGOs and experts expressed their thinking. The draft tabled by the government suspicions of preliminary agreements be- provides for the creation of a conglomerated tween parties and quota distribution. In fact, body on the basis of commissions and bodies the initial expectations that there would be 4 that have already existed thus far, in order to nominees elected from GERB, 3 from BSP and have better coordination of the inspections of two each from MRF and the United Patriots the property of persons in senior positions in were confirmed. The the government and the leadership. The draft followed closely the election of the new SJC provides for the Chairman of that new body to in view of the next CVM progress report. In

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this respect, the election of the new President BGN 15.74 billion for the first six months of of the Supreme Administrative Court Georgi this year. Cholakov was equally important. So far, he has The improvement of the economic state of been a judge at the Supreme Administrative this country and the promises of the people Court and is regarded as close to the outgoing in power for income increases (which they President Georgi Kolev. As per the Constitu- made in the election campaign) enhance the tion, in order for the newly elected President of expectations of citizens and of a number of the Supreme Administrative Court to take the entities in the public sector for an increase of office officially, a Presidential Decree is -need their income. This is why protests of several ed. The President may refuse to approve the labour organisations and sectors are not un- nomination, but only once. President Radev likely, demanding higher income on the eve of announced that it would be more appropriate promulgating the government budget for next for the newly elected Supreme Judicial Coun- year. They will influence the debate for passing cil to elect the SAC President so that, as Presi- it. The protests of police officers and the staff dent Radev put it, the new President has a lot of the Ministry of Interior, which we had sev- more respect. The decision of the President of eral months ago, were renewed. Police Unions the Republic is still pending. demand a back-dated pay rise, as well as an This year too, there is a positive trend in allowance for clothes. the development of this country’s economy. At the end of September, the government Gross Domestic Product has grown by 3.6% passed a report on the state of national secu- in the second quarter of 2017. The increase rity in 2016 stating that Russia is one of the compared to the first quarter was 0.9%. Expert main foreign political threats. The document evaluations of the National Institute of Statis- says that the actions of Russia are a source tics (NSI) GDP in the second quarter reached for regional instability and that the security BGN 24.309 billion in nominal terms. The for- challenges in the regions of the Baltic and eign trade balance is in the positive. Employ- Black Sea are growing, where Russia is en- ment is growing; unemployment has shrunk hancing its military capabilities and increasing in the second quarter of 2017. The Unemploy- its military operations. The deterioration of the ment rate is 6.3%, 1.7 % less than that reported relations between the Russian Federation and in the second quarter of 2016. 213,900 unem- NATO and EU is also determined as a problem. ployed remain registered in the Employment This creates serious trials for the existing Eu- offices. ropean security infrastructure. According to data of the Ministry of Fi- Further threats are listed, like the on- nance, at the end of June there was a bud- going military actions in Syria, the pressure of getary surplus of BGN 1.78 billion. The rev- refugees and migration, as well as the risk of enue in the first six months was BGN 17. 48 establishing terrorist cells. According to the billion, whereas BGN 14. 54 billion was from report the trends of the development of the taxes, which is 51.9% of the plan for the year international environment outline a predomi- in total. The revenue from social security and nantly hybrid nature of the future risks and health insurance contributions was BGN 4 bil- threats. Attempts of foreign states to form lion in total. Non-taxation proceeds amounted public opinion by way of disinformation, pro- to BGN 2.27 billion. And the spending totalled paganda campaigns, using social media for

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spreading misleading information, financing said that Radev should name the lobbyists and parties and populist organizations are a cause not just throw around unfounded allegations. for concern. According to him, money is needed not only Prime Minister Borisov stated that the re- for the Air Force, but also for the Army, as well port is not aimed against Russia; it is rather as for the police, for pensioners, for new trains, in conformity with the fact that Bulgaria is for, railroads etc. Actually, the decision to pro- a NATO member and since all the papers of cure new fighter planes was taken by the ma- the Alliance read that, after the annexation of jority and the previous government of Boyko Crimea and the war in Eastern Ukraine, Russia Borisov. This is why his current stance seems is a threat to the NATO member states, so Bul- strange and it gave the President a reason to garia may be a possible target in a potential say that Borisov changes his position all the war. Borisov pointed out that Bulgaria main- time. GERB MPs, on their part, accused Radev tains friendly and pragmatic relations with of lobbyism in favor of Gripen. This conflict Russia and even during his meeting with may make the tension between the President Alexis Tsipras in one of the topics and the government stronger - even more so, they discussed was to work for lifting the given the fact that various media close to the sanctions against Russia and for normal- government started a campaign against the izing the relations between the EU and the President. Russian Federation. In late September the TV showman Slavi At the end of September there was some Trifonov stated that he would work on a new tension between the government and Presi- political project and would look for people to dent regarding the results of the replace the current political elite, which, in his work of the Parliamentary Committee, which words, was exhausted. Trifonov has had ambi- had to carry out an inquiry on the decision of tions to enter politics for a long time and one the caretaker government to select the Gripen of his steps towards that was a referendum fighter planes for the public procurement of to amend the election rules, which he initiat- new fighter planes for the Bulgarian Air Force. ed, but he did not get sufficient votes in order As soon as it was established it was dubbed to make its outcome mandatory. The lack of by many the “Anti-Radev” Committee. At the confidence in politicians on the part of many end of the day, the Committee decided that the citizens and Slavi Trifonov’s popularity – par- procedure had to be restarted with review of ticularly among young people – make interest the bids of Gripen, Eurofighter and Portugal, in his future intentions even stronger. For the who offer second-hand F16 planes. President time being, however, they are just intentions Radev reacted sharply and said that the lob- and it is difficult to assess his chances of suc- byists had benefitted most from this decision. ceeding. In fact, it will take more than a year submit new bids, in order to start the procedure anew. 1.1 Foreign and European Policy President Radev said that Prime Minister A day prior to the date of significance for Boyko Borisov had been misled by his advi- Bulgaria and Macedonia – 2 August, marking sors and that his MPs had not read the docu- the Ilinden-Preobrazhenie (Transfiguration) ments they had passed themselves in the pre- Uprising and celebrated as the National Day vious National Assembly. Borisov, on his part, of the Republic of Macedonia, in Skopje the

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Prime Ministers of the Republic of Macedonia expressed his expectation of a positive reac- and the Republic of Bulgaria signed the long- tion on behalf of the EU and wished that the awaited treaty of friendship, good neighbour- Republic of Macedonia become part of the Eu- hood and cooperation between the two coun- ropean family. tries. Prime Minister Zoran Zaev on his part The treaty provides for the two countries stated that the two countries have taken a not to make territorial claims against each oth- historic step “forward together to the future”. er and not allow adversary actions against the In his words, signing the treaty demonstrates other country on their territory. A joint expert that where there is political will and desire to committee will be established to deal with his- progress, issues are resolved. Zaev said that torical and educational matters, which should the signed document is a common success contribute to the objective interpretation of the for both countries and contributes to the politi- historic events of impact on both countries. cal stabilization of the countries in the region Bulgaria and Macedonia will organize joint providing prospects for the whole of Eastern celebration of historic events and pay homage Europe. to historic personalities, aiming at strengthen- During the visit, two memoranda were also ing good neighbourly relations in the spirit of signed – for the development of the railway European values. The Republic of Macedonia links between and Skopje, and for coop- confirmed that its Constitution may not and eration in the area of natural gas. must not, either now or in the future, be inter- On 25 and 26 August the President of preted of being the grounds for intervention in France Emanuel Macron visited Bulgaria upon the home affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria. the invitation of President Radev and Prime Within three months from the treaty entering Minister Boyko Borisov. The visit was agreed into force, Bulgaria and Macedonia will estab- during the visit of the Bulgarian Prime Minister lish a Joint Intergovernmental Committee co- in Paris several months ago. The perspectives chaired by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of for the development of the bilateral relations both countries. The Committee will meet once between Bulgaria and France, bilateral eco- a year and will monitor the efficient enforce- nomic, investment and cultural cooperation, ment of the treaty. the security of external EU borders, as well as Prime Minister Borisov said that Bulgaria ideas for the future of Europe were some of and the Republic of Macedonia have arrived the points of emphasis in the talks between at the conclusion without any go betweens the French President and President Radev and that peace and good neighbourly relations are Prime Minister Borisov. The priorities of the more important than anything else. Borisov forthcoming Bulgarian presidency of the EU emphasized that the term “common history” Council, the European prospects for the West- brings people closer together and provides ern and Bulgaria becoming part of the prospects, rather than divisions. In his words, Schengen area and a member of the Eurozone signing the document sets the “tone for politi- were discussed. cal stability and maturity and carries the mes- In the meeting, the efforts of Bulgaria and sage of peace, prosperity, and investment cli- France were stressed for managing the migra- mate, as well as prospects for young people to tion influx to Europe, whereby President Ma- travel but stay to live in the Balkans.” Borisov cron underscored the necessity of reforming

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the European Asylum Policy. President Ma- Borisov also established a similar link; he cron confirmed France’s support for Bulgaria’s said that one needs a quicker increase in the accession to Schengen as well as for Bulgaria income and improvement of the standard of becoming part of the discussion on Schengen living in the new member states from Eastern reforms. Europe, in order to restrict the migration to- The assessment was shared that the EU wards Western Europe. needs a new impetus in the process of Euro- On 5 September, Prime Minister Borisov pean integration. The multiple crises in the visited Greece and met with his colleague regions neighboring the EU require a common Alexis Tsipras. They discussed the refugee cri- response, as both presidents stated and sin- sis and the pressure on the borders of Bulgar- gled out the importance of developing com- ia and Greece. The Ministers of Transport of mon European defense. The Bulgarian Presi- both countries signed a memorandum for the dent noted the excellent cooperation between construction of a high-speed railway corridor the armed forces of Bulgaria and France and connecting with a high-speed railway line the thanked for France’s support in the process ports of Thessaloniki, Kavala and Alexandru- of transformation and modernization of the polis on the Mediterranean with the Bulgarian . On his part, Presi- ports of Burgas and Varna on the Black Sea dent Macron confirmed France’s readiness to and Russe on the river Danube. The estimates continue supporting the development of the show that Bulgaria has to invest more than 1 defense capabilities of Bulgaria as a factor of billion Euro in the project and that the overall stability in a region close to a number of cri- cost will be as high as 4 billion Euro. From this ses. project Bulgaria wins future development of The French President sought Bulgaria’s the ports of Burgas and Varna, a link to Alex- support for the reform of the European Direc- andupolis, and the construction of a modern tive regulating secondment of employees to line from Varna to Rousse. the EU and the so-called “social dumping”. Bulgaria had a strong reaction to the law President Radev stressed that it falls within passed by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, the competence of the government, but it which reads that after the 5th grade students is important that it becomes part of the big will not be able to learn their mother tongue. debate on building a social Europe. Radev The Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs an- added that Bulgaria is against the workers’ nounced that a letter co-signed also by the social security fraud. However, he linked the Ministers of the Foreign Affairs of Hungary, change in the current regulation with the more Romania and Greece had been sent to the general economic discrepancies in the EU. In Minister of the foreign Affairs of Ukraine his words, “there are other problems like tax demanding that the education law not af- dumping too, but there is also pay of the work- fect the rights of the minorities to learn their ers in the new member states that is only a mother tongue. fraction of that of the pay of their colleagues PES leader Sergey Stanishev said that the in the old member states for the same work.” issue would be brought up officially by the Eu- The Bulgarian President underscored the ne- ropean Parliament delegation, which would be cessity to maintain the cohesion policy that on a mission to Kiev at the end of September. leads “to real convergence”. In a special letter, MEPs from Bulgaria, Po-

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land, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary and Croa- off the coast of Turkey. Turkish coast guards tia expressed their concern that the new law managed to save 38 people. All this shows contradicts the international commitments that the refugee traffic already has a new route Ukraine had made as part of the partnership along the Balkan route and in future it could agreement with the EU; it violates the rights of also be directed towards Bulgarian territorial the minorities and builds up ethnic tensions. waters in the Black Sea, after the wall along During the visit of President Radev to the ses- the border with Turkey turns out to be a seri- sion of the UN General Assembly, he talked on ous barrier. this topic with his Ukrainian colleague Petro Poroshenko, who assured the Bulgarian Presi- 2. State and development of major po- dent that the law would in no way affect the litical parties rights of the Bulgarian minority. 2.1. Social Democratic and other center- left parties 1.3. Refugee crisis 2.1.1. BSP The government and Prime Minister Bor- 2.1.1.1. Condition isov have seen the reduction of refugee pres- During this quarter BSP intensified its op- sure on Bulgaria as a success. According to position activity. If, until recently, the party’s Borisov, this is due to the diplomatic efforts opposition activity was primarily a verbal at- the country has made in recent years in its tack on its opponents from GERB, there is now relations with Turkey. The construction of the a change in behavior. The BSP has directed its fence along the border has also played its part. efforts in developing alternatives to govern- Interior Minister Valentin Radev pointed ment policies and legislative initiatives, which out that in recent months the pressure on the leads to a substantive policy debate - concrete Bulgarian border has decreased by 70 percent policies and a clash of ideas. In this regard, as a result of the efforts made by the Bulgar- the BSP anti-corruption bill, as an alternative ian authorities, the EU financial assistance to that of GERB, which has already been men- and the temporary engineering facility on the tioned, was particularly reflected in the public Bulgarian-Turkish border. Radev stressed that space. In this way, BSP is positioning itself the agreement between Turkey and the EU is on one of the most important issues for so- working very well, including on a bilateral ba- ciety - the fight against corruption, and what sis. makes an impression is that the Socialist proj- In mid-September, Romanian coastguards ect is more radical than that of GERB. While rescued 153 migrants from a Black Sea vessel the GERB project envisages that the new anti- after receiving a signal for help. The ship was corruption body will rather monitor and report towed to Constantsa. According to initial data to the competent authorities in cases of suspi- among the migrants there were 53 children. cion of corruption, the BSP draft provides for it Migrants are increasingly using this route and to have investigative functions. The debate on trying to cross the Black Sea from Turkey in an the adoption of the new anti-corruption law is attempt to reach Romanian territory. Several yet to come, and it appears that this will be the days later, a tragic incident occurred when 15 main clash between the ruling party and BSP people drowned and 20 were missing after a during this political season. boat with migrants capsized in the Black Sea The BSP has demanded that they also pro-

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pose an alternative budget for the next year, Ninova that instead of using the proven law- which shows that the debate on its vote in yers in BSP, the party paid a law firm to write parliament will be exacerbated. And during the anti-corruption bill. That, according to Ger- this quarter BSP recalled GERB’s pre-election gov, is incomprehensible and inexplicable. The promises to raise incomes, but this has not BSP leadership acknowledged that they were happened, exemplifying protests by the Min- using the services of a law firm, but said it had istry of Interior employees or the insignificant been done before. increase in pensions, which was one of the Former BSP leader Mikhail Mikov criticized main political promises during the pre-election the leadership of the party and the work of the a campaign by the coalition partners of the parliamentary group. The reason for this was GERB “United Patriots”. the election of members of the Supreme Judi- At the opening of the autumn parliamenta- ciary Council from the parliamentary quota. In ry session at the beginning of September, BSP Mikov’s words, the BSP has shown that it is not leader Cornelia Ninova read out a declaration a clear opposition. He believes that there are on behalf of the parliamentary group outlining many problems in the BSP that are not solved the priorities in the legislative work that was to in the direction of opening the party to voters. be followed by socialists. Ninova mentioned According to him, the BSP cannot reach peo- that in the new session the National Assembly ple and prove it is the authentic left party. would have two priorities - the Presidency of the Council of the EU and the adoption of the 2.1.1.2. Recommendations next year’s budget. BSP should continue to offer alternative Ninova said that the main strategic goal policies, subjecting them to public discussion, for the party was raising income and reducing not only in party structures, but also among poverty. According to her, “there are also work- a wider range of citizens. It would be a good ing poor - one in every ten” in the country. She idea for the party to begin preparations for the pointed out that the efforts of the government local elections in 2019 at an earlier stage by should focus on education, the economy and stepping up its local structures. It is important the fight against corruption in order to fight to allow local party structures to actually have poverty. Cornelia Ninova said that BSP will the final say in nominees for mayors ofmu- propose amendments to the Pre-school and nicipalities and settlements, not just formal, School Education Act, with an emphasis on as it has been over the years, and this has led school drop-outs. to demotivation of local assets. As the main The contradictions in BSP, after Georgi left party, BSP approves of it as the initiator of Gergov’s resignation from the Party’s Execu- a dialogue with other left and centrist forma- tive Bureau, have disappeared, although Ger- tions in the direction of finding allies and build- gov last month again attacked Ninova and the ing coalitions at local level. leadership, saying that they were leading the party in the wrong direction that they were de- 2.1.2. ABV - Movement 21 prived of proven experts and parliamentarians 2.1.2.1. Condition like Mikhail Mikov, Atanas Merjanov and Yana- After the elections, ABV and Movement ki Stoilov, and this could be seen in the work 21 do not show any closer relations between of the parliamentary group. Gergov accused themselves, nor common positions or initia-

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tives. The coalition between them was pre- position to “hit” several private enterprises. In election and now it seems that each of the his words, however, they do so in a way that parties goes their own way. With the approach will also ruin state-owned enterprises in the of local elections in 2019, it is not impossible industry. According to Prodanov, “Dunarit” is for the two formations to relaunch their coop- part of the struggle to overcome the legacy of eration again. the bankrupt Corporate Commercial Bank. The relations between ABV and Movement criticized the BSP and 21 with the leading left party - BSP are also its leader, Kornelia Ninova, for having partici- stagnant. Moreover, the BSP received heavy pated in the election of the parliamentary quo- criticism from the two formations. And this ta of the Supreme Jucicial Council and the six only reinforces the tendency that dialogue is candidates nominated by the socialists have missing and the prospects for closer coop- chosen the three who, according to her, are the eration or reunification of the left are reced- most inappropriate and convenient for GERB. ing over time. Especially since the BSP estab- According to Doncheva, the Bulgarian Social- lished itself as the main opposition party with ist Party does not show willingness and desire a large-scale parliamentary group. for genuine judicial reform because they are In the past quarter a few particularly critical part of the status quo and cannot get away statements of the leader of Movement 21 Ta- from certain dependencies that guide much tiana Doncheva, addressing both the govern- of the party’s processes. Doncheva also criti- ment and the BSP, will be remembered. Don- cized the anti-corruption bill of the BSP, which, cheva said that the state is governed by the according to her, does not clearly state what Mafia and that at the highest state level, deci- this body will do and what its structure will be. sions are dictated by how to “steal” more. She Everything else, according to Doncheva, for ex- even said that the country is heading towards ample who will appoint the body, or whether fascism, because anyone can be charged there will be investigative functions, is irrel- with anything, if it is so decided, for example, evant. to ruin a business after pressure from the state. According to her, this is being done at 2.1.2.2. Recommendations the moment with the private arms companies ABV and Movement 21 can enhance inter- Emko and Dunarit, because the businessman nal party work, and if they want to continue and MP from MRF Delyan Peevsky wants to their cooperation with each other, it is a good take them and the state cooperates with him idea to start with common political positions through the Minister of Economy Karanikolov, on the topics of the day. Unlike up to now for who, according to Doncheva, is a protegé of them just to be left with the episodic participa- Peevsky. tion of their leaders in shows where Doncheva also supported the protest of they discuss the situation in the country as workers in Dunarit and Emko, who protested to political analysts. The work of politicians is to the National Assembly because of the revoked point out the problems and to offer solutions, licenses for trading companies. The topic “Du- not to be political commentators, which is the narit” was also commented on by the ABV lasting impression that the leaders of both for- leader Konstantin Prodanov, who said that cer- mations give people. Political positions in the tain circles are currently empowered use their form of declarations and political documents

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will ensure more political weight. their firm readiness for a full 4-year ruling mandate. He mentioned that the government 2.1.3. “Bulgarian Social Democrats” Party will work for stronger integration processes 2.1.3.1. Condition in Europe, and the GERB parliamentary group Also during this quarter there was no will do its utmost to that end. Tsvetanov has change in the status of the “Bulgarian Social given assurances that the country’s acces- Democrats” party. There is no inner-party life; sion to Schengen and the eurozone are fun- the party is unrecognizable in the public space, damental priorities for GERB. In his words, even among the broader left-wing electorate; Bulgaria should make the most of the forth- there are no media appearances. coming presidency to improve its authority in the Union. According to Tsvetanov, the oppo- 2.1.3.2. Recommendations sition must understand that gaining sympathy The recommendations remain the same does not stem from fake news and oppression as in the previous quarter: the party must re- of the opponent, but from the ability to evalu- establish its internal party activity; it must ate good political ideas and to offer working strengthen its media presence; it has to ex- decisions. In his words, the rhetoric of hatred press positions on major political issues and does not give rise to political trust. Tsvetanov the country’s agenda; to seek dialogue with pointed out that during the new political sea- other left-wing and social-democratic forma- son the parliamentary group of GERB will work tions in order to implement meaningful and for consensus and agreement on the nation- meaningful initiatives. ally significant topics, both with its partners and with the opposition. According to him, 2.2. Center-right parties the public have expectations of more justice 2.2.1. GERB and the fight against corruption, and for this In the past quarter, GERB focused its ef- reason the main priority for GERB this season forts on governance. The party highlighted will be the adoption of the anti-corruption law, above all the foreign-political activity of the which will create a new anti-corruption body. government, which was reported as success- In Tsvetanov’s words, this must be adopted by ful and proof of the strengthening of the role the end of the year. The statement also high- of the country at European and international lighted GERB’s intentions for reforms in the ju- level. The agreement of good neighborliness diciary. Tsvetanov stated that it was a matter between Bulgaria and Macedonia and the of heading for fast and efficient justice, with growing influence of Bulgaria in the region, as the recommendations in the European Com- a result of the diplomatic efforts of the govern- mission’s reports on new legislative changes ment and Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, was being followed. particularly highly rated. In the summer months two unpleasant At the opening of the new parliamentary scandals related to political figures from their session in early September, Tsvetan Tsveta- ranks hit the headlines. In mid-July, Chief Pros- nov read a statement on behalf of the GERB ecutor Sotir Tzatsarov announced data from Parliamentary Group, which outlined their pri- an investigation against GERB MP Zhivko Mar- orities. Tsvetanov said he was confident that tinov regarding the extortion of a merchant in the program of the government expresses Dobrich for a total of 4 tons of flat salami sau-

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sage, as well as 60kg. of cured beef and “Ele- but Vlaykov had immunity and was therefore na” fillet, amounting to 45,000 levs. According untouchable. to the victims, Mr Martinov had repeatedly In the middle of September, during a meet- stated that the delicacies were for Prime Min- ing with the municipal leadership of GERB-Tar- ister Boyko Borisov. The Chief Public Prosecu- govishte, the chairman of the GERB parliamen- tor said that the check carried out proved that tary group and deputy chairman of the party no such sausage had reached the Prime Min- Tsvetan Tsvetanov said that the preparations ister. This scandal caused jollity about GERB for the local elections in 2019 should begin. in social networks, and brought about mock- According to him, GERB manages 130 munici- ery and oppugnancy from the opposition. palities in the country with a population of 5.5 BSP said it was GERB’s style of governance, million people. For this reason it is important and such racketeering exists in many places to maximize all of the structures of GERB. in the province. GERB went into explanatory Tsvetanov mentioned that in the small set- mode, but they did at least react quickly, ex- tlements the personality is the leading fac- cluding Zhivko Martinov from their ranks. After tor, and for this reason we should think of talks with him, he decided to leave parliament. undisputed candidates for mayors and mu- GERB said that this case was closed for them nicipal councilors. and that they had proven over the years that In the context of the local elections in 2019 when one of their representatives was found there is tension between the Mayor of Has- to be culpable, they would immediately leave kovo Dobri Belivanov, elected with the support the party. of GERB and the local structure of the party. A month later a new scandal rocked GERB, The leadership of the local organization sent which was widely reflected in the public do- a letter to the GERB headquarters in Sofia main. In the municipality of Septemvri, during which expressed their disappointment with a child’s birthday party, the owner of the res- the mayor’s work. The document says that for taurant which was the venue for the party was months there has been tension between the shot with the gun of the chairman of the Mu- structure and the mayor Dobri Belivanov. This nicipal Council in Septemvri from GERB, Lazar was brought about by the failure of the May- Vlaykov, the gun having been shot many times. or’s management. The process of ascertaining who shot the man - Lazar Vlaykov, as is claimed by the relatives 2.2.2. Reformist block of the victim of the shooting, or the child, as In the past quarter the Reformist Party par- Lazar Vlaykov claims - is in progress. GERB im- ties were not in the public eye. There has still mediately excluded Vlaykov from their ranks been no congress at the Movement Bulgaria but could not answer the question of why their of the Citizens to elect a new party leader after member occupied such an important post at Meglena Kuneva’s resignation. The UDF was the local level after it became clear that other also very passive in its appearances. Only one cases were being brought against this person contribution of UDF leader Bozhidar Lukarski – including battery and hooliganism in recent will be remembered on a TV show in which last years, for which he has never been con- he commented on the situation surrounding victed. Victims have talked about these events the scandal with the companies Dunarit and and said that all this has been known for years, Emko.

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2.2.3. DSB members of the Supreme Jucicial Council by During this quarter DSB will be remem- the National Assembly, and they believe that bered for several media appearances of the behind-the-scenes dealing in the country has new chairman of the party Atanas Atanasov, triumphed again and in the future there will be in which he criticized the work of the govern- no real change in the work of the main person- ment. A particular focus in Atanassov’s state- nel body of the judiciary. ments was Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, “Yes, Bulgaria” expressed dissatisfaction whom the DSB leader blamed for all the major with the visit of the Russian Chief Prosecutor problems in the state. Atanasov made direct Yuri Chayka to Bulgaria, who visited the coun- accusations of corruption against Prime Min- try at the invitation of Chief Prosecutor Sotir ister Borisov. According to him, Borisov is “the Tsatsarov. Lord of public procurement”, which he “distrib- utes so that it goes to his friends.” 2.3. Centrist parties Atanasov is of the opinion that the right political space can be united only on the ba- 2.3.1. MRF sis of a general assessment of how power will Over the past quarter, the MRF has contin- be exercised in the state. Those who believe ued to criticize the involvement of nationalists that “this is a vicious, oligarchic model of gov- in government. In almost all their public ap- ernment that is detrimental to the economy pearances, the representatives of the move- and statehood can find an easy way to unite.” ment regarded this as an extremely negative Atanasov made a firm statement that, while and paradoxical phenomenon in the context he is chairman of the DSB, he will not fight for of the upcoming Bulgarian presidency of the them to govern one day with Borisov, but that Council of the European Union. his desire is to create a real political alterna- At the beginning of the new political sea- tive. son in early September, MRF chairman Musta- fa Karadayi read from the floor of the National 2.2.4. “Yes, Bulgaria” Assembly a declaration on behalf of the par- In July and August, “Yes, Bulgaria” van- liamentary group outlining party priorities. He ished from public attention. One explanation stated that “instead of managing the country for this is that the leadership has embarked on through working institutions and administra- building party structures across the country. tion, we have become witnesses of activities It was not until mid-September that the party that are characteristic of an amateur club, and headed by former Justice Minister Hristo Iva- that is not how to govern a country.” Karadayi nov showed political activity related to the pri- pointed out that the Government program ority issue of reforming the judiciary. demonstrates essentially a lack of a clear vi- The party sent a letter to President Rumen sion for the future development of the country, Radev not to sign the decree appointing Geor- and is a “set of declarations and measures that gi Cholakov as chairman of the the Supreme do not only guarantee the achievement of well- Administrative Court because his candidacy established goals but reveal the inability of the was not convincing, but it had been negoti- government to achieve economic growth, so- ated in advance by the status quo in the judi- cial responsibility and a European quality of ciary. “Yes, Bulgaria” criticized the election of life.” According to him, Bulgaria has no right to

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move away from European values, even more rate Commercial Bank and the legacy of its as- so in a year in which the country will preside sets. In August, it became clear that the owner over the EU Council for the first time. Kara- of the bankrupt Corporate Commercial Bank, dayi pointed out that successful resolution of Tsvetan Vassilev, through an American office important issues requires the country’s gov- and a former US governor, had filed a lawsuit ernance to be grounded on a common Euro- in the under the Magnitsky act Atlantic-oriented basis of values, rather than that he had been the subject of political repres- on nationalists and populists in government. sion and violation of his rights by Chief Pros- Also in this quarter, the name of the MP ecutor and Delyan Peevski. In from the Movement for Rights and Freedoms, the claim it is stated that the bank was subject Delyan Peevski, has given rise to debate in the to raiding by Peevsky with the assistance of public domain. Peevsky, who has not attend- the Chief Prosecutor and state structures, and ed sessions of the National Assembly for a this fact actually caused the bankruptcy of the considerable time, and who many claim to bank. Vassilev argues that the struggle is now be abroad where he takes care of his deals, for the control of its assets, which was, in fact, continues to be the man responsible for the Peevsky’s main goal. Vassilev gave as an ex- very negative image of MRF in the eyes of ample what is happening in the military-indus- the public. trial complex with the company owned by him In August in some media in the country, – “Dunarit”, that Peevsky’s main goal now is to publications were issued about the imminent acquire it, for which he is aided by the Minister arrest of Ahmed Dogan and a conflict between of Economy Karanikolov, who is close to him. him and Peevsky. This forced a response from Peevsky sent a letter to the media deny- Dogan, who rarely speaks in public. He said ing articles published about his interest in the he has not been in real politics for 5 years and arms business, calling this fake news. does not see any reason why he should be ar- In mid-September it became clear that in rested. Dogan said people should not “be both- the spring of next year the MRF will host the ering with him, but looking at the state.» He de- ALDE Leaders’ Leaders Meeting at their regu- nied the publications that he and Peevsky had lar annual meeting. The decision for Sofia to disagreements. host this was taken at the last meeting of the Meanwhile, members of GERB appealed to ALDE leadership, a member of which is the the Prosecutor’s Office regarding an old case Movement for Rights and Freedoms MP Ilhan from the time of the tripartite coalition – the Küçük. The forum will focus on the priorities Tsankov Kamak dam, as its wall is cracked of the Bulgarian presidency, the future of the and a major overhaul is needed. This was sub- EU, and Brexit, but it will also launch the can- sequently denied by the company that runs the didacies of the Liberals for the next President dam, from where it was announced that main- of the European Commission who has to be tenance was planned. Dogan had received a elected after the European elections in 2019. million-dollar fee as a project consultant, for MRF leader Mustafa Karadayi described the which a case was filed with the SAC, and he choice for host venue as appreciation of the was acquitted some years ago. active work of MRF in ALDE, the European in- Peevsky’s name was also involved in the stitutions and Bulgaria. According to him, the ongoing saga of the bankruptcy of the Corpo- Movement for Rights and Freedoms will use

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the high rating and their positions in ALDE to them to be brought to bankruptcy. Krastina contribute to the Bulgaria’s successful first Taslakova has been charged with a crime presidency of the EU Council. Karadayi also committed by her from the end of 2013 until pointed out that among the main issues the the end of 2015 in Vidin and Sofia in partner- MRF will highlight during the forum will be ship with Mareshki and Hristov. The two MPs “more a Europe of the union, the place and have a “custody” measure. the future of the Balkans along the lines of the According to the leader of “Volya”, the at- model of the Bulgarian ethnic model and the tacks against him are political in nature. Mr transformation of Europe and the Balkans into Mareshki said he had received suggestions an area free from nationalists and radicals.” that he abandon his fuel business and petrol stations. He said he would not name names 2.3.2. DOST because he feared for his life. During this quarter, the party of former Mr Mareshki is of the opinion that “corrup- MRF chairman Lyutvi Mestan disappeared tion, a dysfunctional judiciary and the crush- from the political scene. Mestan, who was par- ing of business scare off foreign investors.” ticularly active during the election campaign, He stressed that in 2016 foreign investment during these months had no media coverage, decreased by BGN 1 billion compared to 2015 nor comments on topical issues on the politi- whilst at the same time in Romania it increased cal agenda. This shows that at this stage the threefold. activity of the DOST party is, to all intents and The leader of “Volya” said that they would purposes, frozen. The coming months will give support or initiate a vote of no-confidence in more clarity to its future in the context of the the cabinet regarding their governance as a upcoming local elections in 2019. whole if nothing good happened. He men- tioned that for several months in the National 2.3.3. “Volya” Assembly his parliamentary group refuted “all In the middle of July, “Volya” leader Vesse- the false news about the group, including the lin Mareshki and two of his MPs Plamen Hris- claims that it would be a crutch for somebody.” tov and Krastina Taslakova were indicted for extortion by the prosecution. Over the period 2.4. Nationalist parties from April 3, 2013 to the end of 2015 Hristov is accused of having threatened three phar- 2.4.1. United Patriots macy owners, in the cities of Sofia and Vidin, Also during this quarter, the United Patri- in co-operation with Mareshki and in one case ots have shown moderation in their positions with Krastina Taslakova. The threats aimed and utterances due to their involvement in the at getting pharmacists to stop working or to government. Something that will be remem- transfer shareholdings to Mareshki. In some bered is the participation of the Deputy Prime cases, the owners of pharmacies were forced Minister Valeri Simeonov in several night-time to buy medication from a warehouse for medi- checks on restaurants in the Black Sea resort cal products under unfavorable conditions. of Sunny Beach on account of excessively The pressure on rebellious pharmacists also loud music in several discotheques that have came via the Executive Agency for Drugs and troubled the tourists for years. Simeonov said by means of unfair commercial practices for the state should intervene and enforce order

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in the resorts. His participation in these ac- sponsible.” According to him, GERB listens to tions was controversial. On one hand, many the ideas of its smaller coalition partner, and have criticized this behavior, since it could the opposition at times has been very respon- lead to a reduction in the number of tourists, sible. This shows, according to Siderov, that “it and things should be regulated after the end of is obvious that the time of constructive action the season; others have supported Simeonov in politics has come, and that things that lead because there has been a noise problem for to a real result are being done.” years, but there has been no solution due to In the middle of September Deputy Prime the lack of action of the authorities. Prime Minister Valeriy Simeonov said problems in Minister Boyko Borisov supported Simeonov the relations in the ruling coalition were ap- and said that these issues should be settled parent. In his words, some disagreements are at a legislative level - it should be clear what related to staff appointments in ministries and status each resort would have and so in the local authorities. According to him, party lead- future any such misunderstandings would ers of GERB are placed in leadership seats on be avoided. purely “partizan” motives. Simeonov does not Another major topic which the United Pa- agree on appointing incompetent people just triots claimed as their success was the con- because they are party loyal to GERB. He said struction of the fence along the border with that GERB urged Neno Dimov, Minister of En- Turkey and the reduction of the flow of refu- vironment and Water, to appoint their people gees. “Ataka” leader Volen Siderov said he to the ministry managed by him. He admitted had been pushing for the construction of this there was a very large disproportion in the al- fence for years and had supported this idea location of posts that were not in line with the even with Plamen Oresharski’s government coalition agreement. Simeonov mentioned when the fence was built. there was no dialogue in the coalition, with no At the opening of the new parliamentary meeting of the Coalition Council being held for session, the chairman of the parliamentary two months. group of the United Patriots Volen Siderov The chairman of the GERB parliamentary read a statement on behalf of the group. In group, Tsvetan Tsvetanov, admitted that the it, he pointed out that “the political class has coalition council had not met for a long, but obviously grown wiser in recent years.” In his put it down to the summer months and the ab- words, the United Patriots Group have shown sence of some ministers who were involved in in their work up to now that they are correct, other events. However, Tsvetanov explained loyal and responsible political partners. In his that there was rather a tension on staff ap- words, reality has made clear and disproved pointments between the three parties of the those who “frightened people that something United Patriots - VMRO, “Ataka” and NFSB, terrible was happening.” According to Siderov - rather than between them and GERB. on the contrary, the opposite happened. In the The initiative of the new regional gover- past three months of the coalition government nor of Sofia from “Ataka” for renaming Mount with GERB, “good things have happened for Musala did not prevail. President Radev, whose Bulgaria.” In his words, “they may not be too prerogatives are the naming of sites of nation- large, but enough to sense, feel, see from peo- al importance, refused to rename the highest ple, and understand that the state can be re- peak on the Balkan Peninsula. This is the sec-

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ond attempt of “Ataka” to rename the peak be- his pro-Russian positions, recommended to cause of the Turkish-Arabic origin of the name. Boyko Borisov that the report be edited in the During the term of the previous President part about Russia, saying the Prime Minister this claim was also rejected. was misled by his advisers. In his words, Rus- sia is not a threat to the country, and the con- 2.5. Positions of the parties on foreign and tent of the report is a compilation of secret European politics service reports. The report by the government, which de- BSP said they would not support the docu- scribed Russia as one of the main threats to ment in a planning room as it stands. Cornelia the national security of the country, has given Ninova said Russia is not a threat but a stra- rise to mixed comments from the parliamen- tegic opportunity for Bulgaria. Deputy Chair- tary-represented parties in the country. Kras- man of BSP Parliamentary Group Anton Kutev simir Velchev of GERB, who is also co-chair commented that this is “another inadequacy of the Friendship Group with Russia, said that of the government.” According to him, “the politicians too often interfere with the friend- last few governments have shown a propen- ship and relations between and sity for a definite anti-Russian mood. Bulgar- Russians. “The less they get involved, the bet- ian politicians should speak both Russian and ter it is for the love between the two nations,” English equally well.” Kutev said the fact that Velchev said. GERB MP Anton Todorov said the country could maintain good relations with the report on the state of national security Moscow “does not mean that we are giving up would not harm relations between Bulgaria the Euro-Atlantic direction of Bulgaria.” In his and Russia. He described it as “a wonderful re- words, Bulgaria can be a bridge in the relation- port, which reveals the hybrid war against the ship between the EU and Russia. government.” The coalition partner of GERB, United Patri- 3. Public opinion ots, also commented on the subject. MP Milen According to a Gallup International express Mihov said that Russia’s increased military survey conducted in early September, public presence in the Black Sea Basin and the in- attitudes to corruption have been examined, crease in Russian military forces pose a threat as well as- how the new anti-corruption body to Bulgarian national security. In his words, the should be structured. More than two-thirds of intensified relations between the EU, NATO Bulgarian voters (70%) agree that the presi- and Russia cannot lead to any result other dent must appoint the head of the new body, than increasing the threat to national securi- while 21% support the proposal for this to be ty. However, he also defended friendship and done by the majority in the National Assembly. good relations with Russia. In his words, “Rus- With regard to the Corporate Commercial sia is an extremely important factor in Bulgar- Bank bankruptcy case, a dominant interpre- ia, historically and politically significant.” His tation has already emerged in the mass con- colleague from “Ataka” determined the thesis sciousness - for 70% of adult Bulgarians the that Russia is a threat to the country’s national bank was deliberately made bankrupt in order security as “NATO nonsense”. “Ataka” leader for its assets to be seized. One sixth (15%) and chairman of the parliamentary group of think that the blame is entirely that of the the United Patriots, Volen Siderov, known for banker Vasilev and 6% agree with both ideas.

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Gallup’s survey shows that Bulgarians having been postponed by the Macedonian generally perceive that the political elite side for many years. The treaty improves the as a whole is corrupt. Every second voter prospects for Macedonia’s integration into replied that GERB is a corrupt party, just NATO and the EU, and Bulgaria has shown the same number of respondents think the that it can be an important political factor in same for BSP. For both parties, the same the region. The government is continuing the share (37%) is of the opposite opinion. At preparations for the presidency of the Coun- the same time, however, the question of cil of the EU, with a consensus among the which of these two parties is more corrupt, main political forces that it is a top priority the distribution of opinions is: GERB - 37%, that should be supported by all. BSP - 26%, and both - 17%. 2. BSP is starting the new political season An Alpha Research survey, conducted in actively. The party began to come forward with early September, shows that President Rumen alternative legislative proposals, which led to a Radev retains high public confidence and is the focus on the political debate on the important country’s most respected politician. Only 13% issues for the country. In this way, BSP shows said they had a negative attitude. However, the that it can be not only a strong opposition with positive ratings also decreased slightly - 54%. a large-scale parliamentary group, but also that Prime Minister Borisov has 32% approval and it seeks to prove itself as a possible alternative 39% disapproval. Among the ministers, Deputy to governance in the future. Whether this will Prime Ministers and Kras- happen, however, will depend to a great extent simir Karakachanov are most approved, and on party preparation for next year’s local elec- one of the least appreciated members of the tions, which will show whether the party’s elec- government is the Minister of Justice Tsetska toral rise will continue. On the other hand, as a Tsacheva. leading political force on the left, BSP is called The Alpha Research survey shows that if upon to initiate a conversation with other left elections were to be held today, 25.1 percent and centrist formations about the forthcoming of voters would vote for GERB. BSP remains local elections in search of successful coali- the second with 19.3%. The United Patriots tion formulas on a local basis. ranked third with 5.9%. MRF remains fourth, 3. Smaller left formations like ABV and and 4.9% would vote for them. In the party of Movement 21 were lost in the public space. The Vesselin Mareshki “Volya”, there is a drastic activity of the two parties is expressed in the decline - 1.8%, which leaves it below the elec- occasional media participation of their lead- toral barrier. The out-of-parliamentary right ers. After the elections, ABV and Movement 21 also remains with low results - Reformist Bloc did not actively engage in dialogue with each - 2.2%, «Yes, Bulgaria» - 1.6%, DSB - 0.8%. other, but it is possible to form coalitions at the local elections in 2019. The critical tone, 4. Main conclusions and forecasts especially that of the leader of Movement 21 1. The last few months will be remem- Tatiana Doncheva towards BSP, makes a strik- bered for the government’s foreign policy ing impression, since it does more to create activity. A particularly great success is the new barriers and obstacles in the left space. Neighborhood and Cooperation Agreement 4. GERB was rocked by several scandals which has been signed with Macedonia, after in the summer months, which had a nega-

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tive impact on the public image of the party. quarter, MRF MP Delyan Peevski was the At the same time, the proactive foreign policy cause of scandals and accusations that con- activity of the government and Prime Minister tinue to be detrimental to the image of MRF. Borisov compensated for these internal politi- The saga surrounding Dunarit and Emko, with cal negatives, which GERB has suffered in re- which Peevsky’s name was involved in the cent months. At this stage, GERB managed to public sphere, leads to reasonable suspicions maintain a relatively good dialogue with its co- of behind-the-scenes actions in which state alition partners, although Deputy Prime Minis- representatives are also involved. ter and the NFSB leader Valeri Simeonov said 7. Vesselin Mareshki’s party “Volya” start- there were communication problems. Until the ed the parliamentary season with a motion for end of the year, the efforts of the GERB parlia- a vote of no-confidence in the government. mentary group will be focused on the adoption With this move, Mareshki wanted to show once of the new anti-corruption law and next year’s again that, in the fragile majority in numerical budget. terms that GERB and the United Patriots have 5. The extra-parliamentary right in the in the National Assembly, the votes of “Volya” form of the Reformist Bloc, DSB, and “Yes, Bul- may prove decisive at key moments. Earlier in garia” still cannot find the right way to unite the July, Mareshki and two MPs from the parlia- right ploitical space, which is racked by con- mentary group of “Volya” were charged with tradictions. The beginning of the new political blackmail. Mareshki dismissed the charges season will be remembered for several protest and said there was political pressure on him. declarations of DSB and “Yes, Bulgaria” for the 8. “The United Patriots” feel comfortable election of a new Supreme Judicial Council, in the government. Proof of this is mitigation and a new chairman of the Supreme Admin- of radical talk, calls for consensus and dia- istrative Court, as well as the visit of Russia’s logue that can be heard, even from Volen Sid- Chief Prosecutor Yuri Chayka. Probably in the erov. A problem for the United Patriots could coming months, as local elections approach be created the management of two of their in 2019, smaller right-wing parties will once ministries, the ministry of defense, headed by again intensify dialogue between each other Deputy Prime Minister and VMRO leader Kras- to find a new coalition formula. simir Karakachanov, who has to recommence 6. The MRF continued its criticism of the procedure for the purchase of new fighters the government regarding the involvement of and the ministry of economy headed by Emil nationalists in it. This will be the main line of Karanikolov, around which there is growing conduct on the part of the movement ahead tension with the case of Dunarit and Emko. of the European Presidency. And during this

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About the editor: Imprint

Prof. PhD Georgi Karassimeonov is a lecturer at the University Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung | Office Bulgaria “St. Kliment Ohridski” and Director of the Institute for Political 97 Knyaz Boris I Str. | 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria and Legal Studies. From 1991 to 1998 he was Chairman of the Bulgarian Political Science Association. Responsible: Helene Kortländer | Director, Office Bulgaria Tel.: +359 2 980 9747, Fax +359 2 980 9747 http://www.fes.bg

Orders: [email protected]

Commercial use of all media published by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) is not permitted without the written consent of the FES.

The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung or of the organizations for which the authors work.

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