Radev: Growing Instability in Bulgaria

President Rumen Radev warned of increasing instability in governance, emphasizing that it stems not only from parliamentary relations but also from a broader societal context.

Following the official flag-raising ceremony in Sofia, the head of state addressed journalists to express his concern about the growing discontent among Bulgarian citizens. According to him, the impoverishment of the population, the feeling of injustice, and the rising resentment are factors that seriously undermine the stability of the state. The atmosphere after the ceremony was tense, with a palpable sense of anxiety among those present.

Criticism of the ruling coalition

Radev directly accused the ruling coalition of being a product of manipulated votes and serving the interests of a single political entity that demonstrably controls not only the prime minister but also the entire government. "The parties replaced the vote of their constituents and created this ruling coalition. It serves one political force that is increasingly taking control, and demonstrably so, not only of the mandate holder but also of the entire government," he stated, sparing no criticism of the situation. Parliament is currently engaged in debates on a vote of no confidence in the Council of Ministers with Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, motivated by "the government"s failure in the sectors of internal security and justice, leading to a deepening of the problem of the captured state".

Criticism of Delyan Peevski and "Novo Nachalo"

Without hiding behind euphemisms, President Radev identified "Novo Nachalo" as the political force he was referring to. He dismissed the criticism of the party leader, Delyan Peevski, who called him a "false savior", stating that he would not respond to "unfounded attacks". Radev sharply criticized the political class for its lack of contact with the reality of the lives of ordinary Bulgarians, posing the provocative question: "where and how does the leader of this party live"?

Delyan Peevski"s security detail

Delyan Peevski"s security detail from the National Security Service (NSS) also became the subject of questions. However, President Radev distanced himself from this issue, referring it to the Tripartite Commission, which makes decisions in such cases, emphasizing the lack of presidential intervention in this process. "You can contact the NSS, the General Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, the Chairman of DANS, they are members of this commission – they decide," he explained, indicating specific institutions to which journalists can turn for more information.

The dispute over Rheinmetall

The dispute over the potential cancellation of the contract with "Rheinmetall" was also addressed. In response to criticism from Boyko Borissov, President Radev emphasized his contribution to attracting investments from "Rheinmetall", stating: "Borissov should first be satisfied and grateful that I brought Mr. Papenger to Bulgaria and convinced him to invest here_q_. Radev categorically denied any intention to sabotage investments but stated that he is obliged to respond to signals of abuses and irregularities received by the presidential institution, transferring responsibility for the implementation of investments entirely to the executive branch.