Stancho Stanev Appointed Acting Chairman of State Agency for National Security
The Council of Ministers has appointed Stancho Stanev as the new acting chairman of the State Agency for National Security (DANS). The decision was finalized today during the first meeting of the Council of Ministers.
Under the terms of the appointment, Stanev has been named Deputy Chairman of DANS for a five-year term, effective May 8, 2026. In addition to this role, he will serve as the temporary head of the agency until a permanent chairman is appointed.
Professional Background and Qualifications
Stanev brings extensive experience in security and protection. He is a long-serving employee of the National Protection Service (NSO), where his career included serving on the security details for several high-ranking officials, including:
- Former Prime Minister Sergei Stanishev
- President Zhelyu Zhelev
- President Petar Stoyanov
Since 2023, Stanev has been working within the territorial directorate of “Customs – Sofia.” Academically, he holds a master’s degree in Finance from the University of National and World Economy (UNSS).
Context and Future Outlook
This leadership change follows a statement made earlier today by Prime Minister Rumen Radev, who indicated that the former acting chairman of DANS, Denyo Denev, would be replaced.
As Stanev’s current role as agency head is temporary, a possible next step for the government will be the nomination and appointment of a permanent chairman to lead the State Agency for National Security.
