Bozhidar Bozhanov, co-chair of “Da, Bulgaria,” has raised alarms over “scandalous” proposed changes to the parliamentary rules of procedure. He claims these amendments severely restrict the rights of the opposition, surpassing limitations previously seen under GERB and DPS.
According to Bozhanov, the proposals include the reduction or total removal of deadlines for members of parliament to review bills before they are discussed in committees or the plenary session.
He noted that while previous majorities occasionally violated the 72-hour review requirement—sometimes holding meetings lasting only 27 seconds—the current majority seeks to change the rules to make such actions legal.
Procedural Shifts and Agenda Control
The proposed changes would allow emergency agenda items to be introduced without the need for a presidential council. The time permitted for a parliamentary group to take a break for deliberation would be reduced from 15 minutes to 10 minutes.
Bozhanov further asserted that “Progressive Bulgaria” is effectively banning temporary committees. Under the new rules, 48 signatures would be required to establish a temporary committee, meaning the opposition might have to seek support from GERB or Vazrazhdane.
Bozhanov stated that on the day of the opposition, hearings would no longer be permitted, and questions could be postponed.
Impact on Legislation and Transparency
The opposition’s legislative initiative is also a point of concern. Previously, a 2/3 majority in committee was required to “detach” a bill from others on the same topic; the removal of this high threshold means opposition bills may never reach the stage of consideration.
Transparency is also at risk, as the obligation for institutions to provide documents to representatives is being removed. Bozhanov warned that this change could allow key documents to be hidden from public officials.
Bozhanov highlighted that these amendments were proposed without detailed motives, consisting of only three short, blanket sentences. He contrasted this with remarks from Radev, who had criticized the legislative initiatives of deputies for not meeting Council of Ministers standards, suggesting those standards are not being applied to Radev’s own deputies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to the deadlines for reviewing bills?
The proposed changes would shorten all deadlines for reviewing bills before they reach committees and the plenary, and some deadlines would be removed entirely.
How are temporary committees affected?
They would now require 48 signatures to be proposed and would be prohibited from entering the agenda during the “day of the opposition.”
What is the risk regarding institutional documents?
The removal of the obligation for institutions to provide documents to members of parliament could lead to key documents being hidden.
How do these proposed procedural changes affect the balance of power within a parliament?
