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Title: Deadlock in Bulgaria: DPS-Novo Načalo Urges Form Government or New Elections

The leader of DPS-Novo Načalo, Delyan Peevski, has entreated ongoing negotiating teams from GERB, Demokratichna Bulgaria, BSP-Obuchina Lyevitza, and "Imat takyv narond" to either establish a government or proceed to fresh early parliamentary elections. Addressing journalists at the Party House, Peevski emphasized the necessity of forming a government, warning that failure to do so would lead to new elections.

"People should re-rank parties based on who will get the work done," Peevski asserted, expressing confidence that DPS-Novo Načalo’s daily efforts for the people will escalate their trust and make them the leading party in new elections.

Meanwhile, DPS-Novo Načalo’s priorities focus on legislation benefiting the people. Today’s meeting of the Chairmanship Council discussed the lack of active energy and other committees, but Peevski lamented theettet’s indifference to surging electricity and gas prices, with over 100 million levs set to enrich gas oligarch Sasho Donchev with KEGV’s assistance.

When queried about fellow MPs’ rejection of DPS-Novo Načalo’s proposal for a moratorium on electricity price hikes and zero VAT on bread, Peevski attributed the resistance to energy oligarchs’ influence. "The robbery is monstrous," he declared, "and colleagues don’t understand why they’re in the National Assembly."

In response to questions about supporting Borislav Sarafov’s candidacy for Chief Prosecutor, Peevski swiftly rejected Ivo Prokopiev, whom he labeled a "Soros-like oligarch with eTablets." Peevski declined to comment on whether his parliamentary group would support judicial authority law amendments or how they would vote in the plenary.

As negotiations among GERB, Demokratichna Bulgaria, BSP-Obuchina Lyevitza, and "Imat takyv narond" remained silent about failed cabinet talks, DPS-Novo Načalo pushed for action, advocating for a government or new elections to address Bulgarians’ pressing needs.

"Political Tensions Rise as GERB Refuses to Sign Declaration, Signal Clear for Elections"

In a clear indication of upcoming electionsDeyan Peevski has openly declared his intention to run. The Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria (GERB) party has refused to sign a declaration, implying their unwillingness to sever ties with Peevski. This decision has resulted in a clear path towards elections.

Kiril Petkov, co-chairman of "Continue the Change" (PP), stated this in response to GERB’s decision to halt negotiations for forming a regular government. Petkov was speaking at a ceremony commemorating the 177th anniversary of the birth of Hristo Botev, a revolutionary poet, in Sofia’s Borisova Garden.

"I’m sorry to say, showing that this dependence between the two, until it’s broken, makes a better future for Bulgaria difficult," Petkov commented. Petkov also reminded that PP did not participate in GERB’s cabinet talks for the first mandate.

Petkov also addressed the proposed law amendments aimed at halting the process of electing a new chief prosecutor. "The most important for us is to see at first glance what will happen with the Law on Judicial Power (ZSP)," he noted. Petkov stressed that changes to the ZSP are of immense importance, and that an acting chief prosecutor cannot be elected as the titleholder for a seven-year term.

In a recent poll, Bulgarians have shared their wishes for their deputies by 2025. Topping the list is "Work and fewer tall tales" with 36.6%, followed by "New elections" at 29.2%. Other preferences include "Full term" at 15.0%, "Cheap meatballs" at 15.1%, and "Enlightenment and no cable cutting" at 4.1%.

Title: Democratic Party for a New Bulgaria (DPNB) Faces Existential Threat Amidst Political Pressure and Legal Battles

In a recent interview, prominent MEP Ilhan Kyuchyuk raised serious concerns about the future of the Democratic Party for a New Bulgaria (DPNB). Kyuchyuk, speaking with "Govori Sadas" (Speak Now), emphasized that the ultimate goal of certain influential forces is the eradication of DPNB, the third-largest political party in Bulgaria.

Kyuchyuk, a member of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE), asserted that DPNB’s struggles are not merely legal but ideological. He stated, "The great battle is for the ideas of DPNB, which transcend any court decision. However, if there’s political pressure on the judiciary, the winner will be predetermined. I see many signs that influential figures are attempting to manipulate the judiciary to advance their oligarchic agenda, led by [Validol CEO] Hristo Ivanov."

Reflecting on DPNB’s departure from the ALDE group, Kyuchyuk maintained that DPNB was not expelled but rather ousted due to Ivanov’s illegitimate takeover of the party through controversial court decisions and unsanctioned conferences. Kyuchyuk expressed his readiness to support any government construct that excludes both DPNB factions ("DPNB – New Beginning" and "Revival") and the twocurrently represented in parliament.

Bulgaria, Kyuchyuk believes, requires political stability, and all efforts should be directed towards forming a regular government. However, he adds that they are not committed to endorsing a specific prime minister candidate. Kyuchyuk’s comments come amidst a critical period for DPNB, which is grappling with multiple legal issues and political challenges.

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Title: Political Turmoil in Bulgaria: Parties Struggle to Form Government Amidst Internal Conflicts and International Pressures

In a year marked by political instability and division, Bulgaria’s parliamentary elections in December 2024 resulted in a deadlock, leaving the country with a hung parliament and no clear path to forming a stable government. This analysis, conducted by the Institute for Strategies and Analyses (ISA), explores the key political developments and challenges Bulgaria faced in 2024.

Constitutional Crisis and Deadlock

The year began with political parties grappling over constitutional reforms, particularly those concerning the role of the president. This power struggle culminated in a lengthy and contentious parliamentary session to elect a new speaker, setting the stage for a year of political gridlock. Despite the protracted negotiations, no government has been formed as of December 2024.

Partisan Interests over Public Will

Bulgarian politics in 2024 was characterized by a stark disconnect between the political elite and the broader public. This dynamic was further exacerbated by aggressive public communication, Ultimately, this lack of engagement and trust led to a population alienated from its political representatives.

Power Vacuum and International Pressures

The political stalemate in Bulgaria unfolded against the backdrop of evolving global dynamics. Geopolitical shifts, namely the conflict in Ukraine and escalating tensions between major powers, added complexity to the country’s internal struggles. Moreover, Bulgaria’s strategic position in southeast Europe places it at the crossroads of competing international interests, which further complicated domestic political negotiations.

Key Party Developments and Challenges

• GEER-SDS: Despite being the largest party, GERB-SDS faced challenges in forging a coalition, with multiple potential partners calling for the resignation of its leader, Boyko Borisov. As negotiations continued, Borisov’s political future remained uncertain, although his party remained the viable option for forming a government.
• PP-DB: After a tumultuous year marked by scandals and infighting, PP-DB found itself on the brink of collapse. The party’s once-exalted rhetoric of moral renewal was tarnished, leaving it struggling for relevance in Bulgaria’s political landscape.
• Vazrazhdane ("Renaissance"): Vazrazhdane capitalized on discontent with established parties, focusing its campaign on nationalist and anti-EU sentiments. However, its anti-systemic stance may limit its ability to form a coalition and maintain relevance in the long run.
• DPS – Ново начало (DPS – New Beginning): The party experienced a dramatic resurgence under the leadership of Dessislav Perezki, who consolidated power within the party and presented a strong challenge to traditional political forces. Dezember. The party’s new course focused on pragmatism and economic development.

Economic Progress and Challenges

Despite the political tumult, Bulgaria’s economy grew steadily in 2024. The country made significant strides in its green energy transition, reducing greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining economic growth. However, persistent issues such as corruption, low wages, and brain drain continued to hinder long-term economic progress. Moreover, the country’s reliance on energy imports made it vulnerable to global price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions.

Looking Ahead in 2025

As Bulgaria enters 2025, the political landscape remains fraught with uncertainty. With no clear path to forming a stable government, the country risks further political fragmentation and erosion of public trust in its institutions. The outcome of this protracted power struggle will have significant implications not only for Bulgaria but also for the wider region and European Union.

Institute for Strategies and Analyses (ISA) is a Bulgarian think tank focusing on strategic analysis, political risk assessment, and policy recommendations. The институт е смеstånd към непрекаennzeichnete, професионалe, и неутралe изследвания и студиа (www.isainstitute.bg)

This article is the intellectual property of the Institute for Strategies and Analyses. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Breaking News: Local Council in Mineralni Bani Elects New Chair Amid Bomb Threat and Political Strife

In a dramatic turn of events, Ekremin Yüzeir has been elected as the new chair of the Mineralni Bani Municipal Council. This conclusion was reached during the council’s final meeting of the year, which was overshadowed by a bomb threat and a political showdown between factions loyal to Ahmed Dogan and Delyan Peevski.

The meeting began two hours late after a bomb threat forced the evacuation of the council building. Police later confirmed that no explosiv es were found. Despite the delay, acting chair Mehemmed Liatif failed to attend the meeting, paving the way for his deputy, Ekrem Yüzeir, to take the helm.

Yüzeir, who was later elected as the new chair, was a candidate in the October 2024 parliamentary elections. He claimed to have been assaulted during the campaign in a village near Laskovo.

The move to replace Liatif was supported by members of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DPS) party, who accused Peevski’s supporters of attempting to sabotage the election. They accussed of using tactics like the bomb threat to disrupt the democratic process.

Valentin Tonev, a DPS MP, took to Facebook to condemn the incident. "This bomb threat is a clear attempt to spread fear and manipulate the political landscape," he wrote. "When democracy is under threat, and institutions are mobilized to cover up political interests, we must call a spade a spade."

He went on to accuse Peevski’s supporters of being willing to break the law, instill fear, and disrupt democratic processes to maintain their grip on power. "This strategy undermines the foundations of democracy and erodes trust in our state institutions," Tonev warned.

Tonev’s post, which has gone viral, has been shared over 5,000 times and has generated over 2,000 comments. Many users have expressed their support for his stance, with some calling for the resignation of the local mayor, Munevin Iceneder. Iceneder was recently arrested on charges of participating in an organized crime group in connection with the embezzlement of EU funds.

Tensions between the Dogan and Peevski factions have been simmering for some time, with both sides accusing each other of attempting to stifle democracy and undermine the rule of law. The recent events in Mineralni Bani are just the latest chapter in this ongoing political drama.

Turkey’s Political Elite Divided Over Anniversary of Bloody Kirdzhali Incident

In a polarized display of political divisions, high-ranking Turkish politicians marked the 40th anniversary of the Kirdzhali incident in two separate events held just hours apart at the same location. While 24 politicians attended an event organized by DPS-Dogan, not a single one participated in the concurrent event held by their political rivals, DPS-Peevski.

The Kirdzhali incident, which occurred on Christmas Eve in 1984, saw Bulgarian military and police forces impose martial law in the region and attack the local Muslim community, leading to eight deaths, including that of a 18-month-old girl named Türkcan. A fountain and her grave serve as memorials to the tragedy.

The annual commemoration, organized by the DPS since 1990, typically consists of party leaders paying tribute to Türkcan’s grave and delivering speeches. However, this year’s event was disrupted by the rift within the DPS, with each faction holding its own event. The absence of any Bulgarian state representatives further emphasized the political divide.

The government and ministries involved in the incident’s aftermath failed to release any written message of condolence to the affected community, despite the 40th anniversary. This absence echoes the DPS‘ longstanding campaign slogan that they are the only party advocating for the interests of Bulgarian Muslims.

The political delegations at DPS-Dogan‘s event included:

• Zahfer Surakaya, Deputy Chairman of Turkey’s ruling AKP party, who read a message from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan;
• Gökan Zeybek, Deputy Chairman of the Republican People’s Party (CHP);
• Ahmet Eroxan, Deputy Chairman of the Good Party (İYİ Party);

Several Turkish mayors, including 14 from the Republic of Turkey, also attended the event. Notably, three mayors from the AKP, including Mehmetin Çetin from Kavaklı, originally from Bulgaria, were present.

However, the event organized by DPS-Peevski saw no presence from Turkish political figures. Only three dignitaries, the Chief Mufti Muhammed Hacı, the Regional Mufti of Kırdjali Basri Emin Efendi, and the Turkish Consul in Plovdiv Korhan Çüngür, were present at both events.

In a departure from past occasions, the Bulgarian Muslim Spiritual Board refrained from taking sides between the factions, unlike during the 2015-2017 split within the DPS.

Title: "Turkish Machete: DPS Splinters Marks Dark Anniversary of ‘Revival Process‘"

Forty years ago, Bulgaria’s once-monolithic Dongoglu Zombartish_BACK (DPS) party marked the grim anniversary of the "Revival Process" divided, with two leaders, Ahmed Dogan and Delian Peevski, conspicuous by their absence. Instead, they held separate events near the Turk Khan Fountain in Mogilanye village and Momchilgrad, with religious ceremonies led by the country’s chief mufti, Mustafa Haji, and attended by Turkey’s general consul in Plovdiv, Korhan Kungal. Even Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan got involved, sending a message to Dogan’s supporters.

"The Heart Can’t Take It Anymore"

In Mogilanye, three women bowed their heads by the grave of 18-month-old Tuerkan, killed during a protest in 1984. Her mother, Fatma Feyzullah, still struggles to speak about that day. "I can’t… it’s still burning inside me," she said. The child’s death became a symbol of Turkish resistance against forced assimilation, and a water fountain-memorial now stands at the site.

Turkey’s Strong Support

Over 20 mayors and senior representatives from four main political parties gathered to commemorate the victims of the "Revival Process," including members of the DPS, led by Ahmed Dogan, and the loyalist Alternative Party for Change (APS). Turkey’s President Erdoğan praised the Bulgarian Turkish community, urging them to "never forget that you are part of our shared history and culture."

"Where’s Peevski?"

Meanwhile, ERK members and supporters expressed disappointment at Peevski’s absence, with MEPs like Ilhan Kyuchuk questioning his whereabouts. Peevski’s followers placed wreaths at the water fountain, but he failed to attend, leaving the event to his deputy mayor, Eroigi Mymun, who vowed that DPS would continue to champion the rights and freedoms of all citizens.

Unpunished Crimes

Victims of the "Revival Process" are still seeking justice. Over 500 were imprisoned without trial in Belle, while many others were jailed on charges of espionage and terrorism. Documents prove the atrocities, but no one has been convicted.

"A Unique and Renovating Case"

The "Revival Process" aimed to strengthen Bulgarian socialism by assimilating the Turkish minority. It resulted in over 250,000 Romanies being given Bulgarian names. Although some protested, around 360,000 Turks were forced to immigate to Turkey. Now, 40 years later, DPS is divided, each faction vying for their electoral support.

As tensions rise, one thing is clear: the "Revival Process" left a deep scar on Bulgarian society, and its repercussions are still felt today. Only the people’s voice can now decide where their future lies.

Story originally published in Bulgarian by Deutsche Welle

Headline: Thousands Gather in Mogylyane to Mark 40 Years Since Anti-Assimilation Protests in Bulgaria

In a solemn yet uplifting commemoration, thousands converged today in the village of Mogylyane, Bulgaria, to pay tribute to the brave souls who fought against the totalitarian regime’s assimilationist policies four decades ago. The event honored the victims, including 17-month-old Tüyryan, whose name serves as a symbol of the struggle for democracy, rights, and freedoms.

DDPS chairman Prof. Dr. Dzhivdet Chakarov addressed the crowd, emphasizing the significance of the event as an act of remembrance, not vengeance. He acknowledged the pioneering role of DPS as the first dissenting organization in Bulgaria and recounted the stories of those persecuted during the dark times.

The ceremony began with the laying of flowers at Tüyryan’s grave, followed by a prayer led by the Chief Mufti of the Republic of Bulgaria, Dr. Mustafa Hadji. In his speech, Chakarov extended gratitude to the party’s founders and those who faced repression, echoing a clarion call for the restoration of democracy and the statehood of Bulgaria. "Democracy is not a given; it must be defended!" he asserted.

Among those present were deputy chairs of DPS, MPs, MEPs, diplomats, and guests from Turkey, including high-ranking party officials and mayors of Turkish municipalities. Special messages were conveyed by the honorary chairman of DPS, Ahmed Dogan.

For the first time, the anniversary was observed with two separate rallies, organized by the rival factions of DPS. The parliamentary group of "Democracy, Rights and Freedoms – DPS" kicked off proceedings near the village, followed by the "DPS – New Beginning" group later in the day.

Source: BulgarianNews.bg

MARKED 40 YEARS: Bulgarian Turks Commemorate Historic Name Change Protests

For the first time since its formation, the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) held two separate commemorative rallies to mark the 40th anniversary of the protests against the forced change of Bulgarian Turks’ names. The bifactional event kicked off at the village of Mogilyane, where the parliamentary group of "Democrats for a Strong Bulgaria" (DSB) was joined by ranking members of the "MRF – New Beginning" faction later in the day.

"The current challenge can also be an opportunity for all of us to return to the principles that have united us over the years: unity, understanding, fighting for our rights, and striving for justice and peace," said Shinaashi Suleiman, mayor of the municipality of Kirkovo. "Let today’s remembrance not just honor the past but also ignite hope for a future free from suffering and hatred, where humanity and tolerance prevail."

Jevdet Chakarov, chairman of the DSB parliamentary group, expressed similar sentiments, stating, "The significant attendance today underscores our unity and strength. I extend my sincerest congratulations and the best wishes of our honorable chairman, Ahmed Dogan. For over three decades, we’ve gathered not to wallow in past grievances but to celebrate democracy, rights, and freedoms in Bulgaria, hard-won through immense sacrifices."

As the commemorations continue, follow our coverage for more updates. For comprehensive news coverage, visit Google News Showcase.

Title: Two Bulgarian MEPs Leave ‘ Renovate Europe’ Group After DPS Conference

Bulgarian Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) Elena Yoncheva and Taner Kabiov have resigned from the European Parliament’s ‘Renovate Europe’ group. The two MEPs, who are members of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DPS), submitted an official letter to European Parliament President Roberto Metsola and the group’s leadership to announce their decision.

The move follows the National Conference of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms, held on December 22, 2024, in Sofia. In their letter, Yoncheva and Kabiov cited the Declaration and decisions taken at the conference as the basis for their decision.

"The Declaration and decisions adopted by the supreme body of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms – the National Conference, held on 22.12.2024 in Sofia, which determine the basic principles and strategic goals, lead us to end our membership in the ‘Renovate Europe’ Group as MEPs representing DPS," the letter reads.

While the reasons behind this political shift are not explicitly stated, the announcement underscores the strategic direction taken by the DPS following its conference. The European Parliament hasYet to comment on this development. As Bulgaria remains an active player in European politics, the implications of this decision will be closely watched by political observers and the European political scene.