Expert Andrey Yankulov from the Anti-Corruption Fund launched sharp criticism towards current anti-corruption efforts in Bulgaria, describing them as superficial and ineffective. In an exclusive interview with Bulgarian National Radio, he emphasized the systemic challenges facing judicial reform.
According to Yankulov, the current political configuration, dominated by the GERB party, demonstrates only an imitation of fighting corruption. "The results are purely cosmetic," he stated firmly, commenting on the upcoming addition of four new candidates to the Anti-Corruption Commission.
A key point in his analysis is the position of the prosecution, which he believes possesses extremely strong powers. "The prosecution not only raises charges but also leads investigations," the expert noted, emphasizing that attempts to create alternative investigative bodies are doomed to failure.
Yankulov harshly criticized the judicial system, defining it as a passive observer in investigations. "The court has become an ordinary registrar of pre-trial proceedings," he said, expressing concern about the lack of real judicial control.
The expert is particularly alarmed about the trends in the rule of law in Bulgaria. According to him, institutional decline threatens the entire judicial process. "If this practice continues, we risk reaching a complete catastrophe in criminal justice," Yankulov warned.
Analyzing the mechanism of judicial reform, the expert pointed out that the Constitutional Court has failed to finalize the necessary changes. "The question is not whether there will be a reform, but when it will be actually implemented," he emphasized, outlining the need to create independent institutions.
Among the main challenges, Yankulov highlights the lack of a real mechanism to counteract corruption in key sectors. "True corruption remains untouched, especially in areas related to the distribution of significant state resources," he is categorical.
The interview raises sharp questions about existing anti-corruption mechanisms in Bulgaria. Yankulov insists on urgent and deep institutional reforms that guarantee the independence and transparency of the judicial system.
The expert sends a clear message: without fundamental changes, the risk of continuing institutional corrosion remains extremely high. His analysis serves as a strong call to rethink the approach to fighting corruption and strengthening the rule of law.