site.btaDzhema Grozdanova, Supported by 120 NGOs, Submits to Parliament Bid to Become Ombudsman

A total of 120 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are endorsing Dzhema Grozdanova's nomination for Ombudsman of Bulgaria, Dr. Stanimir Hasardzhiev, director of the National Patients’ Organization, told journalists after he and Grozdanova submitted the necessary documents for her bid to Parliament.

Hasardzhiev said that the National Network for Children, which includes over 50 non-governmental organizations as a network, also supports Grozdanova’s nomination.

Grozdanova was GERB MP in the 41st, 42nd, 43rd and 44th National Assemblies. 

Grozdanova stated that her motivation to run for the position is personal, related to a specific case of lack of coordination between state institutions, which ended in the loss of a human life. "I have been thinking about this position for years, but it happened quite spontaneously now, and I am very grateful to the people who stood by me. These are civil organizations, and their support is an even greater responsibility for me," said Grozdanova. She added that she mainly relies on public support and the consolidation of the civil sector, which should motivate members of Parliament to make a decision in favor of her candidacy.

Grozdanova stated that as a public figure, she is consensus-driven, balanced, and suitable for the position. "I want to do this job, and this combination—someone who is suitable and wants to get the job done—is currently not very prevalent in our environment. I have political experience, which is definitely a plus. I have not been involved in active politics for five years. I am a deputy leader of a political party, but I resigned on February 26," Grozdanova said. She clarified that she expects the Sofia City Court to reflect this change by the end of the week, so all legal requirements related to the post of Ombudsman will be met, ensuring that the information is correct by the election date.

Grozdanova stated that she will work to revive the Ombudsman institution, which currently lacks a permanent leader. "I am a doctor, and I will mainly focus on the fields of healthcare, environment, and juvenile justice. I believe the current system is not functioning well for children. They need modern justice and relationships with the judicial system, which our country has not built.