site.btaPrime Minister Borissov Called in for Questioning over Vaccines Case

Prime Minister Borissov Called in for Questioning over Vaccines Case

Sofia, November 23 (BTA) - Outgoing Prime Minister Boyko Borissov spent close to an hour on Wednesday at the Sofia Investigation Service to testify in the so called vaccines case, which concerns an exchange of vaccines between Bulgaria and Turkey. Deputy Prime Minister Tomislav Donchev and former justice minister Hristo Ivanov were also called in for questioning on Wednesday in the same case, over which outgoing Health Minister Peter Moskov has already been charged with mismanagement and malfeasance in office.

Borissov said that he has explained to the investigators how decisions are made "via signature" by the Cabinet and that the decision about the vaccines had to be made quickly. When there are doubts about something, it should be checked, he commented.

Former Justice Minister Ivanov described the questioning of cabinet ministers as a "trite PR" campaign, which the prosecuting magistracy is trying to organize. Ivanov has also explained how decisions via signatures are made by the government, adding that this practice should be reconsidered.

The prosecuting magistracy is trying to demonstrate political significance and weight at the moment. There are people who should be investigated. Tthere are materials, especially from the recent days, that call for a serious investigation, Ivanov said. He explained that he is referring to the recent statements made by controversial banker Tsvetan Vassilev, as well as the leaked conversations between high-ranking magistrates, known as the "Yanevagate" case.

Ivanov also said that the investigators felt uncomfortable with partaking in this investigation. This is a demonstration of exerting political influence over people who have already resigned. There are others who should be called in for questioning, but are not, he added. The prosecuting magistracy often becomes involved in situations and roles, which have a political effect, the former justice minister said.