Parliament Overturns Radev's Veto on Law Amendments

With 12 votes "for" and 3 "against", the deputies from the energy commission to the parliament decisively rejected the veto imposed by President Rumen Radev on the amendments to the Law on Trade in Petroleum Products. The atmosphere in the hall was tense, with the main arguments of the ruling parties focusing on the need for quick and effective measures to ensure the continuous operation of the strategic site in Burgas - the refinery.

At the beginning of the meeting, President Radev's position was presented by his legal advisor, Ivanka Ivanova. She detailed the arguments of the head of state, emphasizing his opinion that the proposed amendments contradict the basic law of the country, as they do not guarantee the rights of certain entities.

"Restrictions on rights must be temporary and provided for in the Law. They must also be proportionate. The rights of the special manager are expanded uncontrollably, causing damage to legal peace, and reputational damage to Bulgaria is expected," said Ivanova. These words sounded harsh in the hall, where political differences were clearly evident.

The parliamentary group of PP-DB proposed a refinement of the texts in the law in order to protect national interests. However, their proposal was rejected by the ruling parties. The argument for urgency remained leading, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

The reactions in the hall were varied. "Why do we really have to hurry, let the refinery stop working, let there be no fuel," commented Dragomir Stoynev from "BSP - United Left", expressing skepticism about the urgency of the proposed changes. His words reflected the concern of some political forces about the possible consequences of the adoption of the law.

From "DPS - New Beginning" they expressed the position that the removal of judicial control is necessary, as there is a risk of appeals from the current executive director of the refinery.

The new amendments to the Law on Trade in Petroleum Products provide for the expansion of the powers of the so-called special manager, including the possibility of selling the shares of "Lukoil Neftohim Burgas". The funds received from this sale will be transferred to a special account controlled by the Minister of Finance.