Political Storm: Mirchev Attacks the Anti-Corruption Commission

20.07.2025 | Politics

The co-chairman of "Yes, Bulgaria" Ivaylo Mirchev insists on a radical reform, proposing a complete shutdown of the Anti-Corruption Commission, accusing it of being a political tool.

Снимка от Aida.burnuchyan, Wikimedia Commons, под CC BY-SA 4.0

Parliamentary politician Ivaylo Mirchev launched sharp criticism towards the existing Anti-Corruption Commission, presenting a well-argued position for its complete elimination. In an expressive statement, he emphasized the systemic problems in the institutional structure that compromise its original mission.

According to Mirchev, the commission has undergone multiple transformations but has always served as an instrument for political pressure. He directly accused Deputy Delyan Peevski of "privatizing" the anti-corruption body, turning it into a mechanism for attacks against opposition activists.

The politician highlighted the selective approach in investigations, pointing out that checks are performed primarily on opposition representatives. "When investigations are selective and targeted only at certain political formations, legitimate doubt arises regarding the true intentions," Mirchev stated.

His words were supported by his party colleague Atanas Atanasov, who described the commission as an "instrument for political retaliation". The two politicians from the "We Continue the Change - Democratic Bulgaria" coalition demanded a radical institutional change.

Mirchev emphasized that the idea of checking political and administrative actors is not bad in essence. The problem arises from the manipulative application of this control mechanism, which loses its objectivity and professional orientation.

The proposal to close the commission comes as a culmination of long-standing tensions and criticisms of its activities. Political analysts expect a sharp discussion about the future of this anti-corruption body.

The key question that remains open is what alternative model will be proposed to counteract corruption practices in the Bulgarian political system. Mirchev and his like-minded colleagues insist on a fundamental reform that guarantees transparency and independence.

Ivaylo Mirchev's statement provoked a wide public response and initiates a serious debate about the institutional design of anti-corruption mechanisms in Bulgaria.