National Assembly

Bulgarian MPs are set to attempt electing a speaker of parliament for the fifth time today, following repeated delays in the process since the constitution of the 51st National Assembly.

Bulgaria's Vice President Iliana Yotova expressed concerns about the ongoing parliamentary crisis, stressing that the risk of it escalating into a constitutional crisis is high. She emphasized the importance of electing a speaker of the National Assembly on Friday to ensure a functioning parliament.

A national survey conducted by "Gallup International Balkan" for the "Referendum" program on BNT has revealed that 56% of respondents prefer the new 51st National Assembly to form a government, even if it requires compromises. In contrast, 22% of those surveyed favor holding new parliamentary elections, while another 22% remain undecided.

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has once again appealed to the Constitutional Court, seeking to declare unconstitutional the amendments made to the Constitution by the 49th National Assembly.

Delyan Peevski, leader of "DPS - New Beginning," called for new elections, emphasizing the need for governance that prioritizes the people's interests. Speaking on the ongoing parliamentary impasse, he remarked, "It's time for elections because there must finally be consideration for the people. Those inside the plenary hall are not thinking about them.

Boyko Borissov, leader of GERB, confirmed that his party will vote exclusively for Raya Nazaryan as Speaker of Parliament. Speaking to the media, he emphasized that the decision was made at GERB's municipal meetings and by the Executive Committee, reflecting the party's collective stance.

Taxi drivers across Bulgaria will stage a nationwide protest today, expressing outrage over the sharp rise in "Civil Liability" insurance premiums. They claim the increase is both drastic and illegal, accusing insurers of operating as a cartel. Representatives of the industry have engaged with institutions and political parties, seeking intervention.

GERB has stated that they will not withdraw Raya Nazaryan's candidacy for Speaker of the 51st National Assembly, according to Deputy Denitsa Sacheva. Speaking to bTV, she emphasized that the outcome of the early elections is clear, and the election of the Parliament's Speaker will determine whether new elections are needed or if the country will move forward with a government.

GERB has made it clear that if Raya Nazaryan is elected Speaker of the National Assembly, she will not be placed on the list for acting Prime Minister, as long as she wishes to remain part of the party. GERB leader Boyko Borissov confirmed this stance during a briefing at the party headquarters, stating that the decision of the party's Executive Committee is firm on this matter.

Rosen Plevneliev, who served as Bulgaria's president from 2012 to 2017, expressed skepticism about the prospects of forming a regular government following the early parliamentary elections in October. In an interview with BGNES, he revealed his concerns about the current political landscape in the country, particularly regarding the upcoming election of the Speaker of the National Assembly.