site.btaGERB-UDF Spokesperson Notes Alignment with MRF on Key Issues

GERB-UDF Spokesperson Denitsa Sacheva spoke at a parliamentary briefing on Monday, following negotiations with representatives of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) to form a government. She noted that the talks revealed alignment between GERB-UDF and MRF on key national priorities. Sacheva also confirmed that both the chair of the National Assembly and the prime minister will be members of GERB.

Sacheva spoke of the need for a qualitative change in political behavior and leadership in Bulgaria. She noted that voters have consistently expressed their desire for a politics of agreement rather than confrontation, indicating a widespread distrust in any political party. She concluded that there can be no further evasion of responsibility. Invitations for discussions on policies and priorities were extended to all parliamentary political groups. The MRF responded positively, while Continue the Change - Democratic Bulgaria (CC-DB) and Vazrazhdane declined.
 
CC-DB's rationale to participate in government formation negotiations is respecting the voters' will and serving as a strong and a pro-European opposition. Sacheva expressed uncertainty about what CC-DB will oppose and questioned how they would vote on policies related to Schengen and the Eurozone. Vazrazhdane's position was that they would only support is a government formed with their own mandate.

No specific names have been discussed regarding the composition or structure of the Council of Ministers at the meeting. When asked about candidate for the prime minister's role, Sacheva emphasized that the focus is on finding a policy-oriented solution, one that avoids concentrating on individual personalities or numerical majorities.

"We are discussing a government of shared responsibility, and the document we plan to propose for discussion will reflect that concept. It will be an agreement outlining specific policies for a government of shared responsibility," she said. Sacheva believes the only possible formula is to demonstrate capability and overcome political ego and narrow party interests. GERB-UDF aims to stabilize the country and break the cycle of elections through collaborative efforts.

Sacheva commented on the possibility of Yordanka Fandakova becoming the chair of the 50th National Assembly. She highlighted Fandakova's proven leadership qualities, her strong dialogical skills, and her abilities as a consensus-seeking politician, stating that she believes Fandakova would be suitable for multiple roles.