Iotova to announce her position on the 2026 budget today

President Iliana Iotova will make a statement today at 3:00 PM regarding the "2026 State Budget Act," the head of state's press office announced. She is expected to present the presidential institution's position on one of the most contentious financial laws in recent years, following serious political and public disputes that erupted around the budget.

The statement comes days after the final adoption of the budget by the National Assembly and against the backdrop of calls for the President to veto the law.

On Tuesday, representatives of "We Continue the Change" submitted a petition to the presidential institution, supported by over 32,000 Bulgarian citizens, requesting that the head of state return the "2026 State Budget Act" to parliament for further deliberation. According to the political group, the adopted text contains serious problems that could jeopardize the country's financial stability. The party announced that if the law is promulgated without being returned, they will refer it to the Constitutional Court.

Yesterday, GERB-SDS MP Vladislav Goranov also told journalists at the National Assembly that after the budget is published in the "State Gazette," a constitutional appeal will be filed against the law. According to him, the dispute surrounding the budget should also be resolved through judicial channels.

On July 24, parliament finally adopted the "2026 State Budget Act." The financial framework provides for a budget deficit of 5.7% of the gross domestic product (GDP), a freeze on the minimum wage at 620.20 euros, and the possibility for the state to take on new debt of up to 10.1 billion euros.

The budget sparked sharp political disputes even during its deliberations in the plenary hall. The ruling majority defended the established parameters, arguing that they guarantee financial stability and secure funding for the implementation of key state policies. However, the opposition criticized the size of the deficit, the increase in national debt, and the freeze on the minimum wage, labeling the budget as socially unjust and financially risky.

According to the Constitution, the President has the right to return the law for reconsideration in the National Assembly by exercising a veto. If parliament adopts it again with the necessary majority, the head of state is obliged to promulgate it. Additionally, the Constitutional Court can be petitioned to review the law's compliance with the country's basic law.

President Iliana Iotova's statement today is expected to provide a clear answer as to whether she will exercise her right to a veto or sign the "2026 State Budget Act."