Bulgarians gathered in Brussels on Friday to demand European Union support in light of the ongoing political crisis in their country. Organized by the Velichie party, the protest was held near the EU institutions, with demonstrators calling attention to issues of democracy and human rights violations in Bulgaria. The rally was marked by the slogan: "Let’s Tell Europe about Bulgarian Mafia."
Key Takeaways
- Protesters demand EU intervention in Bulgaria’s political crisis.
- The rally highlights concerns over democracy and human rights violations.
- Velichie party leader emphasizes the need for EU support against corruption.
The Velichie party, led by Ivelin Mihaylov, expressed strong discontent with the alleged fraud during the snap parliamentary elections held on October 27. Mihaylov stated that the current political climate is pushing Bulgaria closer to Russia’s influence, which he believes undermines European values. He urged the EU to recognize the challenges faced by Bulgarians and to take action against the so-called "mafia politicians" who are believed to be manipulating the political landscape.
Mihaylov pointed out that trust in the EU among Bulgarians is waning, not due to external pressures but because of the corruption and mismanagement by local politicians. He specifically mentioned figures like Delyan Peevski and Boyko Borissov as emblematic of the issues plaguing Bulgarian politics.
Political Context
The protest comes amid a deepening political crisis in Bulgaria, following the recent parliamentary elections that resulted in a fragmented parliament. Boyko Borissov, leader of the GERB-UDF coalition, recently announced his withdrawal from the race to become Prime Minister, citing frustration with the ongoing stalemate and the inability to form a government.
- Election Background: The October 27 elections marked Bulgaria’s seventh early parliamentary election in three years, resulting in a divided parliament with eight political formations.
- Borissov’s Withdrawal: Borissov’s decision to step back from the Prime Ministerial bid reflects the challenges of coalition negotiations, particularly with the opposition coalition, We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria (WCC-DB).
Despite Borissov’s attempts to negotiate a coalition, including a proposal to support WCC-DB’s candidate for Speaker of Parliament, the talks have stalled. WCC-DB has consistently opposed Borissov’s leadership, demanding a commitment to distance from controversial figures like Peevski, who has faced international sanctions for corruption.
The Call for EU Support
The protesters in Brussels are not only voicing their discontent with local politicians but are also calling for the EU to take a more active role in addressing the political crisis in Bulgaria. They argue that the EU must recognize the threats posed by corruption and the erosion of democratic values in member states.
Mihaylov concluded the rally by stating, "We have come to alert the European institutions. We are here to ask for help in solving this problem." The Velichie party aims to bring attention to the plight of ordinary Bulgarians who feel their voices are being drowned out by corrupt political elites.
As the situation in Bulgaria continues to evolve, the outcome of the protests and the response from EU institutions will be closely watched, as they may have significant implications for the future of democracy and governance in the country.
Sources
- BTA :: Bulgarians Rally in Brussels, Demand EU Support over Political Situation in Bulgaria, БТА.
- Bulgaria’s political crisis: Borissov says he is abandoning bid to be PM, form government – The Sofia Globe, The Sofia Globe.
- Bulgaria’s Political Crisis Deepens: Borissov Steps Back from PM Bid – Novinite.com – Sofia News Agency, Novinite.com.
