Political Deadlock Persists as GERB and DB Decline to Address Cabinet Talks

Members of Parliament resumed their duties following the Christmas recess, with key meetings scheduled for the budget and finance, as well as legal committees. Among the critical items on the agenda is the legal committee's review of proposed changes to the Judiciary Act, an issue tied to ongoing governance negotiations. Three separate bills, submitted by "We Continue the Change-Democratic Bulgaria" (WCC-DB), "Revival," and "There is Such a People" (TISP), aim to restart the process for electing a prosecutor general by annulling the selection of Borislav Sarafov.

Despite the legislative activity, the stalled negotiations for forming a regular government dominated attention in the National Assembly. Representatives from GERB and Democratic Bulgaria (DB) declined to comment on the matter. Rosen Zhelyazkov, re-nominated for the prime minister role by GERB, and Nadezhda Yordanova from DB avoided media inquiries about whether discussions would resume. Zhelyazkov stated only that answers might emerge during the parliamentary session, while Bozhidar Bozhanov of DB redirected questions to GERB.

On Sunday, GERB announced via press release that talks for forming a regular cabinet had been suspended. The party blamed Democratic Bulgaria for rejecting both proposed prime ministerial candidates—Boyko Borissov and Rosen Zhelyazkov. DB reportedly learned of the development through the media and expressed surprise at GERB's decision.

The press release highlighted GERB's appreciation for constructive dialogue with BSP-United Left and TISP, while omitting any acknowledgment of DB. Both BSP and TISP had earlier voiced their opposition to Borissov's return as prime minister, with TISP labeling the proposal "absurd."

Meanwhile, questions remain...