Boyko Borissov

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has handed the first exploratory mandate to form a government to Rosen Zhelyazkov, the nominee for Prime Minister from the largest parliamentary group, GERB. In accepting the mandate, President Radev emphasized the significant responsibility given the fragmented parliament and low voter turnout, which could impact institutional legitimacy.

President Rumen Radev will hand over a mandate to form a government to the largest parliamentary group, GERB, on July 1, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., as per Article 99, paragraph 1 of Bulgaria's Constitution. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to establish a new cabinet within the 50th National Assembly, according to an announcement from the president's press center.

Bulgaria's political landscape remains in disarray, with no party able to form a stable government, according to Boyko Borissov, leader of GERB. Borissov lamented that the current situation is hampering Bulgaria's progress towards joining the Eurozone, a goal that he believes could have been achieved if a stable government, led by GERB, was in place.

Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski has firmly stated that his country "will not kneel before Bulgaria," responding to recent remarks by Bulgarian leaders Boyko Borissov and President Rumen Radev.

Boyko Borissov, leader of the GERB party, announced plans to propose a minority government, emphasizing it would be solely GERB-controlled in response to their voters' preferences. Speaking at the parliament, Borissov dismissed any alliances with other parties, asserting they are unpopular among GERB supporters.

President Rumen Radev met with representatives of the coalition "We Continue the Change - Democratic Bulgaria" (WCC-DB), marking his third round of consultations with parliamentary parties.

After meeting with President Rumen Radev, GERB leader Boyko Borissov announced plans to propose a minority government for Bulgaria's first term, urging support from "all responsible individuals" opposed to new early elections.

Government consultations with Bulgarian President Rumen Radev began today, starting with the parliamentary group of the GERB party. President Radev emphasized GERB's responsibility as the largest political force to seek a majority and form a government.

Today marks the second day of the inaugural session of the 50th National Assembly, after failing to elect a speaker yesterday. Raya Nazaryan's candidacy garnered support from GERB, DPS, and Hristo Prodanov of BSP, totaling 116 votes initially. However, Prodanov voted "against" in the second round.

Nikolay Markov, leader of the right-wing "Greatness" (Velichie) party was escorted out of the plenary hall by the quaestors after arriving about 20 minutes late and missing the oath-taking ceremony for the opening of the 50th National Assembly. OFFNews reported that Markov attributed his tardiness to family problems.