Bulgarian Parliament‘s Stormy Start: Energy Woes Delay Inaugural Session; Deputy Speaker Struggles with Rules

Bulgaria’s 47th National Assembly kicked off its 2025 session with a tumultuous start as energy woes delayed the inaugural plenary meeting and the deputy speaker appeared uncertain about parliamentary procedure. The session began with deputies visibly drained and running on empty, reflecting the country’s ongoing energy crisis.

Deputy Speaker Natalia Kiselyova sparked controversy when she mistakenly announced the agenda and program for the parliament’s work without putting each point to a vote, as prescribed by the National Assembly’s rules. This procedural slip-up didn’t go unnoticed by the deputies.

GERB MP Rosen Zhelyazkov quickly pointed out the discrepancy between the announced agenda and the one shared the previous day. He argued that each item should be put to a vote, adhering to the parliament’s rules.

DPС-NF MP Stanislav Anastasov chided Kiselyova for ignoring his parliamentary group’s proposal to discuss the hike in flour and VAT taxes for bread. "Where have you disappeared to? Please explain why you’ve removed this project from the agenda?" he demanded.

ITN MP Pavelava Mitova also criticized Kiselyova for deviating from the rules: "This agenda cannot include point 4 because the report on the Electoral Code has not been published."

GerB MP Raya Nazaryan echoed her colleagues’ concerns, stressing the need for separate, independent votes on each decision and for them to be included in the weekly program.

DPС-NF MP Hamid Hamid beseeched Kiselyova and her colleagues not to become "lobbyists for the ERP-Declaration, which skins the Bulgarian people."

ITN MP Toshko Yordanov quipped: "Clearly, Madam Chairman, you are working on your own rulebook, which the other 239 MPs do not use. Clearly, it will be so."

As the parliamentary session remains in turmoil, tensions are high following the energy crisis that dimmed lights across the country over the holidays. Bulgarians eagerly await the Assembly’s agenda for 2025, hoping for solutions to the ongoing energy woes.

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Title: "Delyan Peevski’s Role in Bulgarian Politics to Grow as ‘Democrats‘ and ‘Socialists‘ Form Government – Analyst"

Meta Description: Pundits argue that Delyan Peevski’s DPS-New Beginning party will play a pivotal role in Bulgarian politics as ‘Democrats’ and ‘Socialists’ unite to form a government, transforming the political landscape.

Article:

In an unexpected political turn, Bulgarian politics is witnessing a shift in dynamics as the Democratic Party (DPS) led by Delyan Peevski seems set to expand its role in the country’s politicalprocesses. Renowned political analyst, Tsvetanka Tabakova, has forecasted this growth, stating, "DPS is transforming according to the demands of the 21st century," in an interview with Aktualno news.

Tabakova pointed out Peevski’s leadership style, noting, "He’s transformed DPS into a much stronger political force." She believes that despite attempts to isolate Peevski, his influence has grown, as indicated by the party’s improved performances in elections, challenging the narrative of a ‘bought vote.’

As Democratic Bulgaria (DB) and Citizen for European Development of Bulgaria (GERB) collaborate with the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP) and the "There Is Such a People" (ITN) party, Peevski’s role as a critical voice against these alliances becomes more pronounced. Tabakova argues, "This government will be dependent on Peevski’s approval, as he’s the crucial counterbalance to the euroscepticism of BSP and ITN."

Regarding the ongoing government formation talks, Tabakova notes the absence of "medial hysterics" as a positive sign of progress. However, she also expressed concerns about constructing a stable coalition, stating, "It’s challenging to build a complex alliance. The primary focus should be finding a common goal that will legitimize this coalition in the eyes of the public and their constituents."

Tabakova credited Boyko Borisov with the task of leading this complex coalition, asserting, "Borisov is the strategist of this government. If this government is formed, the ministers would likely turn to him for advice, not just the Prime Minister."

Lastly, Tabakova evaluated the political role of "We Continue the Change" (PP) as the opposition. She believes their attempts to demolish existing political majorities while not engaging in forming a new one has left them with only a negative agenda, thereby limiting their influence.

Bulgaria‘s Budget Deficit for 2024 Predicted to Reach 6.1 Billion BGN

Preliminary data and estimates suggest that Bulgaria’s budget deficit for 2024 will amount to around 6.1 billion BGN, equating to 3% of the forecasted GDP. Despite the challenging budgetary environment, the deficit is expected to improve when compared to the level set in the Annual State Budget for 2024. Significant efforts have been made to enhance revenue collection and manage expenditure growth.

The Ministry of Finance’s current forecast indicates that the "State Governance" sector’s deficit for 2024 will remain within the 3% of forecasted GDP reference value set in the Stability and Growth Pact.

Key CFP Parameters Based on Preliminary Data and Estimates:

• Revenue: Expected to reach approximately 72.0 billion BGN, representing 95.6% of annual estimates. The shortfall is primarily due to lower-than-anticipated revenues from EU funds, mainly due to the delay in the second and third tranches of the Recovery and Resilience Plan. National budget revenues are close to the annual plan, with tax revenues compensating for the shortfall in non-tax revenues.

• Tax Revenue: Around 58.7 billion BGN, representing 101.3% of the annual estimate. Nominally, this is a 12.2% increase compared to 2023. Non-tax revenues are lower than planned, mainly due to lower proceeds from the sale of non-financial assets, state and municipal fees, and other sources.

• EU Funding: Expected to amount to approximately 3.6 billion BGN, significantly lower than the 7.1 billion BGN forecast. This is primarily due to the delay in the second and third tranches of the Recovery and Resilience Plan and some operational programs, leading to around a 3.5 billion BGN shortfall in revenue from EU funds.

• Expenditure: Totaling 78.1 billion BGN, representing 95.8% of annual estimates. The increase compared to the previous year is mainly due to higher social spending, following the increase in pensions in July 2023 and July 2024, as well as increased personnel costs for educational and other sectors. Budget expenditures for local governments are significantly higher than planned, while those for EU funds are significantly lower.

Bulgaria’s Contribution to the EU Budget

Bulgaria’s net contribution to the EU budget by December 31, 2024, is expected to be 1.6 billion BGN, in line with the current legislation governing the EU’s own resources.

Statistical data and the January 2025 Information Bulletin on the execution of the State Budget and key CFP indicators will be published on the Ministry of Finance’s website, based on monthly cash execution reports for 2024.

Source: Ministry of Finance

Headline:
Burgas Underground Icon, Aтанас Николов-Bagrito, Succumbs to Fatal Blows; Suspect Detained

Article:

The life of Aтанас Nikolov-Bagrito, a prominent figure in Burgas’ underground scene and business community, was tragically cut short. Reports from ‘Fлагман’ newspaper indicate that he succumbed to severe injuries following an altercation. The suspect, 43-year-old Събин Stefanov from Dolno Ezerovo, remains in custody under a remand measure issued by the Burgas Regional Court.

Initially, Stefanov was charged with causing serious bodily harm, but this will likely be upgraded following Bagrito’s death. State prosecutors allege that Stefanov struck Bagrito multiple times on the head and body outside the ‘Arrogance’ disco in Dolno Ezerovo after a drunken dispute.

A connected news story reports a similar incident from earlier this year, where a body was discovered on a children’s playground in Burgas. The investigation into this case is ongoing.

Stefanov’s lawyer, Захари Кирилов, claims his client was provoked and acted in self-defense. According to Stefanov’s account, Bagrito initially verbally accosted him before pulling out a knife. A scuffle ensued, during which Stefanov seized a metal pole—a personal belonging of Bagrito—and fatally struck him in a fit of rage.

Defense lawyer Кирилов petitioned the court to release Stefanov on electronic monitoring to allow him to care for his children and spouse. However, the prosecution insists that Stefanov should remain in custody, citing potential obstruction of the ongoing investigation and evidence suggesting premeditation.

Another individual initially held in connection with the case has been released on bail due to insufficient evidence linking them to the crime.

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Title: Bulgarian Music Legend Krassi Kurtev of "Akaga" Group Passes Away

Article:

Bulgarian music fans are mourning the loss of Krassi Kurtev, a iconic figure in the country’s music scene who was the bassist and lead vocalist of the beloved group "Akaga." The sad news surfaced just days before the New Year.

Known for his profound love for life, Kurtev once said, "I always want to love life as I do now." The musician was a poet at heart, a classic in every sense, and possessed a sharp wit. Throughout his life, he maintained a simple yet profound approach to the world around him, finding joy in music, family, and friends.

Kurtev, who was 55, graduated from the prestigious National Music School "Lyubomir Pipkov" and later from the National Music Academy "Professor Pancho Vladigerov." For nearly three decades, he was a integral part of "Akaga," one of Bulgaria’s most popular and influential bands, founded by students at the National Music Academy. The group, initially named "Feroton," became a pioneer of modern Bulgarian sound, blending funk, rock, dance, soul, reggae, and even hip-hop.

In a fitting testament to his Legacy, Kurtev and his son Neo performed in a recent Christmas rock concert episode of "The Cherry on the Cake."

Our deepest condolences go out to Kurtev’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.

Headline:
Political Tensions Rising as World Conflicts Escalate and Governments Struggle to Form

Byline:
Albena Borisova, News Editor

Article:

The political landscape is heating up as we enter a new year, with global conflicts escalating and chaos unfolding in the Middle East. While world leaders grapple with these challenges, parliamentary elections and government formations continue to create political tension at home.

In Bulgaria, political passions have reached a boiling point following the deeply divisive parliamentary elections. After a dramatic 11th attempt, parliament finally elected a Speaker, Shevket Ibrahimov. Yet, the question remains: will parliament succeed in forming a government?

In an exclusive interview, we spoke with Tasho Ermenkov, a member of the Bulgarian Socialist Party’s Executive Bureau, to get his insights on the year ahead.

Q: What political event do you foresee as the most significant in 2024, Mr. Ermenkov?

A: From a geopolitical standpoint, the U.S. elections will undoubtedly be a crucial event. Despite predictions to the contrary, Donald Trump managed to secure the Republican nomination, defying expectations and attempts to hinder his progress.

Locally, the most significant event is the ongoing dismantling of our state. It’s unclear where this process will lead, and it’s crucial for us all – not just politicians, but ordinary citizens – to come together and find a solution. Every vote counts, and a lower turnout only benefits those who seek to control the outcome.

Q: With parliament barely electing a Speaker, can you see a government being formed in the near future?

A: The situation regarding the government is uncertain. The BSP is ready to compromise and engage in talks with right-wing parties, but there are limitations to how far we can go. The well-being of Bulgarian citizens must be our top priority. We cannot allow solidarity with Ukraine to supersede our focus on Bulgaria’s interests, particularly when it comes to budgetary, economic, and investment concerns.

Ultimately, we must ensure that Bulgaria’s interests are at the heart of any negotiations. But if we find ourselves prioritizing foreign interests over our own, it will be difficult to speak of a government.

Q: How can we address the deep divisions within our society, and where can we find a solution?

A: The vast majority of Bulgarians share the same perspective: they want politicians to prioritize Bulgarian interests. The division we see is actually between those who support Bulgaria’s interests and those who oppose them.

There should not be room for division on this issue. We must come together as a society and make our voices heard, pushing our political representatives to act in our best interests.

Q: Looking outward, what can we expect from 2025?

A: Unfortunately, conflicts continue to escalate around the world – from Ukraine, to Gaza, and now Syria. But I hope that 2025 will bring a realization that peace is a more viable alternative to war. Human life should always be cherished above all else.

As we enter a new year, let’s hope that common sense prevails, and that our political and societal divisions can be healed through open dialogue and unity.

"DPS Shifts Direction: Towards Tradition, Citizenship, and State Role"

In a surprising development, the DPS (Movement for Rights and Freedoms) has undergone a significant ideological shift, abandoning its traditional liberal stance and embracing conservative values. This transformation is evident in the party’s new programmatic documents, approved at its XII National Conference held on December 22, 2024, in Sofia.

The conference, which marked the reelection of Delian Peevski as the party’s sole chairman, marked a decisive shift in the DPS‘s political orientation. The party now emphasizes the importance of traditional families, youth, and a free market, positing these values as the foundation of personal and societal prosperity. This new stance aligns with the views of the party’s new leadership, headed by Peevski, who has pledged to prioritize the needs and expectations of the people.

The conference’s resolutions also highlight the party’s commitment to strengthening family and youth support and integrating women and families into the political process. Moreover, the DPS призвало derivatives for a more pragmatic approach to addressing societal challenges, with an emphasis on economic development and social welfare.

In addition to its new ideological direction, the DPS has severed ties with European liberal structures, including the Liberal International, the ALDE Party, and the Renew Europe Group in the European Parliament. Peevski has submitted a letter informing these organizations of the DPS‘s decision to terminate its membership, citing their departure from liberal principles and lack of connection with the realities of European citizens.

The conference also saw the removal of the position of "Honorary Chairman," a move that spells the end of the Dogan era within the DPS. The party’s new statutes focus on enhancing the living standards and quality of life for Bulgarian citizens, with the chairman’s role clarified to reflect the party’s new pragmatic approach to decision-making.

The DPS‘s transformation has been met with positive reception among the public, with recent polling indicating that the party’s support has grown, and Peevski‘s popularity has risen. Despite predictions that the party would lose influence in European politics following its break with liberal structures, Peevski has managed to steer the DPS onto a more pragmatic course, one that resonates with European political trends.

As the DPS looks to the future, it is clear that the party of transition has given way to a more pragmatic political entity, one that prioritizes the needs and expectations of its citizens. The DPS‘s new direction, characterized by a return to traditional values, an emphasis on social welfare, and a pragmatic approach to governance, bodes well for the party’s prospects in the upcoming elections.

Keywords: DPS, Delian Peevski, political shift, conservative values, pragmatic approach, electoral prospects

Meta Description: The DPS, once a liberal party, undergoes a transformative shift, embracing conservative values and pragmatic governance, as outlined in its new programmatic documents and reflected in its break with European liberal structures.