site.btaCivic Organizations Nominate Maya Manolova for Ombudsman

Civic organizations are once again nominating Maya Manolova for the position of Ombudsman. At a press conference, held at BTA’s National Press Club here on Thursday, 23 human rights, consumer, environmental, patient, professional, pensioner, youth, disability, and other organizations backed Manolova, who was previously elected to this post nearly a decade ago. An additional ten organizations expressed support for her bid to become ombudsman again.

Penka Georgieva from the Together with You patient organization stated that during her first mandate, Manolova defended the rights of patients.

Desislava Filipova, a lawyer and chairwoman of the Center for European Integration of Bulgaria and Protection of Human Rights foundation, recalled the success of Manolova’ first mandate as Ombudsman. 

Velizar Enchev, part of an initiative to boycott commercial retail chains, also expressed support for Manolova. He proposed that the Ombudsman be elected directly by the people.

"Manolova is a person of causes, and she will work to protect people's rights," said representatives of the civic organizations.

"We all realize that in times of crises, people need protection and support more than ever, a true, independent, and courageous public defender. Among the main priorities is for the Ombudsman to be present. This way, the rights of people can be protected in person. Protecting vulnerable groups – children, people with disabilities, the socially weak, minorities, and victims of violence – is also crucial," said Manolova. Another priority is the protection of people's rights from economically powerful organizations, as well as the right to transparent and accountable administration.

According to her, the Ombudsman should have an active stance on important legislative initiatives related to people's rights.

A few days ago, 120 non-governmental organizations nominated the former GERB MP, Dzhema Grozdanova, for the position of Ombudsman. Former Justice Minister in Simeon Saxe-Coburg-Gotha's cabinet between July 2001 and August 2005, Anton Stankov, has also been nominated for the position.