site.btaBSP-United Left Meets with GERB to Seek Support for Nataliya Kiselova as Parliament Chair

The Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP)-United Left coalition initiated a dialogue with GERB in an effort to secure support for Nataliya Kiselova as chair of the National Assembly, acting BSP Chair Atanas Zafirov said outside the National Assembly on Tuesday.

Zafirov explained that GERB has yet to make a decision, as they are consulting with their collective bodies. "We maintain our stance that selecting an appropriate chair to lead the National Assembly and legislative initiatives is crucial," he said.

He clarified that no meetings have been held with other political parties due to their ongoing internal discussions. "Once they are ready, they will let us know if we will meet later or if they have a decision to share with us," Zafirov added.

Zafirov stressed the importance of selecting a candidate who can ensure the National Assembly functions effectively and avoid the risk of snap elections.

Earlier on Tuesday, BSP-United Left announced that they are starting a series of meetings to improve parliamentary dialogue and resolve the ongoing deadlock over the election of a chair of the 51st National Assembly. Following the meeting with GERB-Union of Democratic Forces (UDF), discussions are expected to continue with "Continue the Change-Democratic Bulgaria".

This comes after a statement earlier in the week by BSP-United Left, which called for parliamentary political forces, with the exception of MRF-New Beginning, to find consensus in the 51st National Assembly.

The National Assembly remains in a legislative deadlock after the eighth attempt to elect a chair failed last week.

Electing a chair is a critical step for resuming parliamentary functions. The process has been marred by deep political divisions and shifting alliances among parties, fuelled by disputes over leadership nominations and accusations of undue influence.