Lefteris Peevski, sanctioned under the global Magnitsky Act for corruption, threatened to impeach President Rumen Radev. Peevski asserted that if elections are held and “DPS-New Beginning” wins them, securing at least 121 votes, Radev would be removed. However, with only 30 deputies, they lack the necessary support to initiate this process. The constitution allows for the termination of a president’s mandate if they commit state treason or violate the constitution, but this requires the support of at least 161 deputies.
Peevski’s remarks follow Radev’s decision not to invite “New Beginning” for consultations before issuing his first mandate. Radev argued that the threat to the constitution comes from compromised individuals infiltrating various institutions, not from their exclusion. Peevski retorted, denying Radev’s claims and questioning the number of consultation invitations sent to him as parliamentary group chair. Peevski further asserted that Radev had a tantrum like a child when he refused presidency and presented the “New Beginning” list, leading Radev’s advisors to deem it unconstitutional.
Title: Peevski: "If I Win the Elections, I Will Remove Radev"
Subtitle: Bulgarian Politician Makes Controversial Statement Ahead of Presidential Race
Bulgarian politics has been abuzz with a recent statement made by Stefan Peevski, a controversial politician and member of the Democratic Bulgaria coalition. In a bold move, Peevski has declared that if he wins the upcoming presidential elections, he will remove incumbent President Rumen Radev from office.
The Statement
In a recent interview with a local news outlet, Peevski stated, "If I win the presidential elections, I will not only become the president but also take steps to remove the current president, Rumen Radev, from office." This statement has sparked a wave of reactions, with some praising his confidence and others condemning his remarks as undemocratic and unconstitutional.
Peevski’s Political Background
Stefan Peevski is a businessman and politician who has served as a member of the European Parliament and the Bulgarian National Assembly. He is known for his outspoken nature and controversial statements, which have often drawn criticism from political opponents and the public.
The Bulgarian Presidential System
Bulgaria operates under a semi-presidential system, where the president is the head of state and the prime minister is the head of government. The president is elected by popular vote for a five-year term, with the possibility of re-election once. The president’s role is largely ceremonial, with executive power resting primarily with the Council of Ministers, led by the prime minister.
Constitutional Implications
Peevski’s statement has raised questions about the constitutional implications of his proposed actions. According to the Bulgarian Constitution, the president can be removed from office only through impeachment by the National Assembly, with the support of the Supreme Judicial Council. This process is designed to be difficult to ensure the stability of the democratic institutions.
Reactions to Peevski’s Statement
Peevski’s statement has drawn a range of reactions. Some political analysts have dismissed it as a publicity stunt, while others have criticized it as an attempt to undermine democratic norms. President Radev’s office has not yet responded to Peevski’s statement.
The Upcoming Elections
The Bulgarian presidential elections are scheduled to take place in November 2021. The race is expected to be competitive, with several candidates from different political parties and coalitions vying for the presidency. Peevski’s statement has added an interesting twist to the campaign, but it remains to be seen how it will impact the outcome of the elections.
Conclusion
Stefan Peevski’s statement that he will remove President Rumen Radev from office if he wins the presidential elections has sparked a lively debate in Bulgarian politics. While some view it as a sign of his determination to win, others see it as a challenge to the country’s democratic norms and constitutional order. As the elections approach, all eyes will be on Peevski and his campaign, as well as the responses from other candidates and the public.
