site.btaMedia Review: April 7

POLITICS

24 Chasa covers UDF leader Rumen Hristov, who says, “There are many worthy figures; why should [GERB leader] Boyko Borissov not be a candidate for president? He is an experienced politician." Hristov said he intends to engage in a very serious campaign to reclaim this institution, because it is important for Bulgaria.

Hristov clarifies that specific names have not been discussed yet, adding that if early parliamentary elections occur, they should follow the presidential elections to see whether the majority has changed.

Hristov notes that a strong majority exists and the opposition appears fragmented. He suggests that Democratic Bulgaria (DB) could have served as a backup option to avoid relying on MRF–New Beginning and MRF–DRF. He adds that the Alliance for Rights and Freedoms (ARF), which is the political formation loyal to Ahmed Dogan and is represented by MRF–DRF in the national assembly, originally joined the coalition without demanding key appointments, but later pursued them.

Mediapool.bg also covers Hristov’s statements and adds that former GERB MP and Minister of Culture Vezhdi Rashidov also called for Borissov to run for President.

“Borissov wants to be president. What’s wrong with that?” Rashidov said. “Anyone can and has run, so why shouldn’t Borissov? He is well-connected, he’s well-regarded abroad—why not him?” He observed that Borissov seemed gloomy lately because he shoulders a heavy responsibility for governing the country. “He may have as many faults as you like, but he also has many virtues,” Rashidov added, calling Borissov “a successful prime minister.”

Mediapool.bg writes that Borissov has denied speculation of a presidential run only a month prior. "If I wanted to become the President, I would have done it already. I have never aspired to be President", Borissov said at the time.

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Trud, 24 Chasa and Mediapool.bg cover comments by GERB-UDF Deputy Floor Leader Denitsa Sacheva, who says, “The government will remain in office for as long as GERB leader Boyko Borissov decides." Sacheva adds, “The ruling majority has not held negotiations with Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) – New Beginning leader Delian Peevski, for support.” She points out that MRF – New Beginning holds no key parliamentary positions, unlike the Democracy, Rights and Freedoms (DRF) – MRF, led by Ahmed Dogan.

Sacheva criticizes actors that "try to be a destabilizing factor over and over" and says " only those who pursue stability and understanding will benefit". She mentions the upcoming no-confidence vote that the political party Vazrazhdane has scheduled, focusing on corruption. She states that she hasn't heard of any corruption scandals since the Cabinet was formed.

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Duma and Mediapool cover Deputy Prime Minister and BSP National Council Chair Atanas Zafirov, who says, “The life of this government is guaranteed—most likely for a full four-year term.” He emphasizes that the cabinet is stable, backed by a clear parliamentary majority and capable of achieving its long-term goals—particularly the plan to enter the eurozone by year-end. Zafirov calls the no-confidence motion “politically unfounded” and “absurd,” noting that the opposition offers no genuine alternative. He points out that, given the regional turbulence, consistent governance is vital. Zafirov also stresses that the three main parties in the coalition have proven they can uphold a stable parliamentary majority. He explains that BSP is “strong and united,” guided by collective leadership. All appointments, he says, are discussed through the joint governance council, citing revenue optimisation at the Ministry of Regional Development as an example of effective management. Zafirov concludes by urging the National Assembly to fulfil its institutional responsibility, stating that the government’s stability is already evident and that it is advancing its priorities with concrete results.

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Trud covers BSP – United Left’s Labour and Social Policy Minister Borislav Gutsanov, who says, “Every vote of no confidence must be respected.” Gutsanov also calls the latest motion “unserious” because the Cabinet has only been in office for 78 days and suggests at least 100 days should be given. Gutsanov says he could not determine if the situation is more stable now but says the ruling majority should not provide further reasons for a vote of no confidence.

He says despite the BGN 18 billion gap tax hikes are ruled out. “Over BGN 24 billion, or 11.2% of the country’s GDP, goes to pensions,” he says, noting that part of these funds come from the central budget. Gutsanov highlights that the National Social Security Institute conducts more rigorous checks, particularly on sick leave and disability assessments.

He calls for “draconian measures against profiteering,” citing “brutal” price growth. On the eurozone, Gutsanov says it is inevitable but should only be introduced “when we are ready.”

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24 Chasa covers Democrats for Strong Bulgaria (DSB) leader Atanas Atanassov, who proposes that the democratic community’s 2026 presidential candidate be selected through a primary election. Atanasov refers to the transition-period precedent when Petar Stoyanov won in a primary against the then-president Zhelyo Zhelev and united all democratic forces. “We plan to hold talks within the coalition, with Yes, Bulgaria! and Continue the Change, to organise a primary. If others wish to join, they can put forward candidates. Whoever wins will be our presidential nominee,” Atanassov says.

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Mediapool.bg covers complaints by MRF–DRF that the governing coalition’s agreement on staffing decisions is not being honoured. Deputy Floor Leader Dzheyhan Ibryamov says, “Many of our supporters want real participation in government. We have agreed that all staffing decisions be taken by consensus and that we have representatives in these positions, and this is still not happening.” Ibryamov emphasizes that the group continues to back the Cabinet, “at least until the report on the euro,” but warns that this could change if the coalition partners do not revise their approach.

He notes that voters, including MRF–DRF supporters, look for stability and normality, and he sees this reflected while touring the country. Ibryamov says DRF-MRF’s priority is to ensure Bulgaria’s progress toward eurozone membership and follow the long-standing policy of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF), which endorses the country’s integration into the EU and NATO.

He insists the regular cabinet must have a clearly defined majority, governance programme and budget to open the door to the eurozone, adding that the Bulgarian electorate “gains security and stability” when policies are realised through the national budget.

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bTV reported that sociologist Andrei Raychev estimated a “60–70% chance of elections in the summer or autumn” due to the fragile parliamentary majority. He noted GERB Leader Boyko Borissov was “deeply dissatisfied” because he was not prime minister and had to “drive from the back seat.” Raychev also commented on two global uncertainties – the US tariffs under Trump and the war in Ukraine – which, in his view, caused political caution.

He remarked that “Europe had to oppose America,” adding that eventually “Europe would return to cheap Russian gas,” leading to a “striking geopolitical manoeuvre.” Raychev believed this shift might prove advantageous for Bulgaria.

btV also covered statements by sociologist Genoveva Petrova, who observed that future geopolitical developments would affect the government’s longevity. However, she said most Bulgarians saw their better future as remaining united with European partners, adding that the Cabinet’s stance on foreign policy appeared “stable” despite the failed no-confidence vote. She noted that in terms of foreign policy, even the divided majority maintained their direction and received additional support from MRF–New Beginning.

 ECONOMY

Dnevnik covers Bulgaria’s ongoing challenges under its 2023 gas supply agreement with Turkiye’s state-owned Botash, highlighting that Bulgargaz accrues around BGN 1 million in debt per day for capacity it barely uses. Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov says the company owes “hundreds of millions of leva” and has failed to make payments for nine months. “For 2024—the first year it owes the full amount—Bulgargaz recorded a BGN 280 million loss,” he adds. The contract forces Bulgaria to pay roughly USD 500 thousand per day for access to Turkish terminals and pipelines, regardless of whether any gas actually flows.

Signed under the caretaker government of Galab Donev in January 2023, the deal is called “historic” at the time. However, experts criticise its rigid terms and warn that it “cannot be modified or terminated early,” as ex-ambassador to Moscow and energy specialist Ilian Vassilev puts it. “It is made so it cannot be changed or interrupted, with a Damoclean sword of penalties always hanging over it,” Vassilev says. Any early withdrawal requires Bulgaria to pay the full USD 2 billion (BGN 4 billion).

Critics also worry about potential deliveries of Russian gas “rebranded” through Turkiye, given Ankara’s legal framework, which treats any gas entering its network as Turkish. Parliament and several governments pledge to renegotiate, but the contract has no revision clause. Stankov discloses that the current cabinet has renewed efforts and plans to meet with Turkiye’s energy minister, although no agreement has been reached so far.

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Trud covers MEP from Vazrazhdane and chair of Europe of the Sovereign Nations party Stanislav Stoyanov, who says, “We have yet to see the real effect from the tariffs America introduced on European imports. For Bulgaria this probably will not matter much, because the trade exchange with the US is extremely small.” He adds that industries in several large European countries, including Germany’s automotive sector, will be affected. Stoyanov believes that, with these measures, the US president follows campaign promises, while Europe grows increasingly isolated. Relations with Russia are frozen, China may be targeted for blacklisting, and ties with the US are tense.

Regarding the European Commission’s EUR 800 billion defence investment plan, Stoyanov says, “This plan is another step toward military escalation, while diplomacy is fully suspended. When weapons and rearmament speak instead of diplomacy, that is escalation. Europe makes no effort to stop the military conflict. The efforts come from the US and Russia.” He also notes that the plan involves taking new loans and reallocating cohesion funds, which is worrying for Bulgaria. “It is necessary to conduct a thorough analysis and not rush. Rearmament cannot be done spontaneously and without in-depth discussions,” he concludes.

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Telegraph covers the restart of the Shipka tunnel project, with Deputy Prime Minister Tomislav Donchev saying the government begins construction and completes most of the northern route this year. The plan includes five tunnels (3.2 km for the main one under Shipka), six bridges, a subway underpass and reinforced embankments. The tunnel secures a direct link between Northern and Southern Bulgaria, improving year-round traffic safety through the Balkan Mountains. Donchev adds that the southern infrastructure, near Kazanlak, will be designed alongside a new bypass. Meetings with local municipalities along Corridor No. 9 are arranged, and traffic will be diverted from Sevlievo to avoid hindering the project.

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Dnevnik covers how the Mining and Geology University (MGU) St. Ivan Rilski overcomes near-bankruptcy through a programme that includes staff reductions, increased research output and deeper links with industry. Rector Ivaylo Koprev recalls that, five years ago, MGU stands at a deficit of BGN 800 thousand, while now the institution reports a BGN 4 million surplus. Measures range from retiring faculty over age 65 to consolidating departments and curtailing costs, allowing salaries to rise by 38.2% in one year. The university revises its study plans to focus on fundamentals early on, then offers specialisations that align with industry needs. MGU maintains partnerships with leading mining universities in Germany and Austria, enabling students to spend semesters abroad. A newly formed company, MGU Engineering, channels revenue from research projects by allocating 88% of the funds to the researcher and 12% to the university, spurring growth in applied science. MGU focuses on direct interaction with students, establishes a chapel named after the university's patron saint on campus, and avoids large social events, instead focusing on strengthening the academic community.

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bTV reported that the capacity of the Studena Reservoir stood at about half its normal volume, but Water Utility Company – Pernik assured there was no cause for concern. “At present, the reservoir holds 11.2 million cubic metres, with an inflow of about 2,500 litres per second. This is relatively low compared to recent years, but we remain calm because there is enough snow above the reservoir, which is expected to melt in the next few weeks and potentially fill it to capacity,” said Borislav Ivanov, manager of Water Utility Company – Pernik. He stated that the volume could reach 21–22 million cubic metres, making water restrictions unlikely.

Ivanov explained that some reservoirs near Pernik, such as in Breznik, experienced lower inflows and people there remained on water restrictions. He hoped additional precipitation and snowmelt would mitigate issues.

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Nova TV aired a panel featuring energy expert Martin Vladimirov from the Center for the Study of Democracy and economist Stoyan Panchev. Vladimirov spoke of US President Donald Trump’s newly imposed 20% import tariffs, and warned, “We will all suffer from the trade war. There will be no winners.” Panchev believed Trump’s goal was “much bigger than a trade war,” arguing it was “a complete restart of the financial and trade system,” aimed at redefining the US role in global commerce and the function of the US dollar.

Vladimirov predicted significant price increases for consumer goods, leading to weaker demand and fears of recession. He described the tariffs as “the highest since the start of the 20th century.” Panchev suggested that even if economic activity dropped, another agreement could emerge, such as returning production to the US. Both experts noted that a major trade war and ensuing recession would inevitably harm smaller, open markets like Bulgaria’s, particularly its export-oriented sectors, and could lower the country’s expected economic growth.

LAW

Dnevnik covers Judge Vladislava Tsarigradska, who wins a defamation lawsuit against the PIK website. The Supreme Court of Cassation annuls previous rulings by the Sofia District Court and the Sofia City Court, which awarded Tsarigradska BGN 24,900 for non-material damages but did not order PIK to remove the defamatory articles. Under the new judgment, PIK must pay compensation and delete four libellous and offensive articles from its site.

Tsarigradska writes on Facebook that this outcome follows over five years of effort, adding that in February 2024 she reveals attempts to pressure her by the late Martin Bozhanov–Notary and certain high-ranking prosecutors. She calls the ruling “extremely important,” as it allows individuals or companies to stand effectively against the “industry of erasing human dignity.” Tsarigradska emphasizes that harassment of perceived inconvenient figures sometimes aims to “morally liquidate” them.

Tsarigradska urges Parliament to take the next step, explaining, “It [Parliament] owes society an up-to-date legal framework for the complex relations arising from media publications in our global digital world.” She plans to use the compensation to cover legal fees and to create a special fund within the Bulgarian Judges Association for protecting judges under pressure.

The Supreme Court of Cassation clarifies that merely awarding financial damages is insufficient to “repair the harm” if the offensive content remains online, stating, “If the article is not removed, unrestricted access to it continues indefinitely, so the negative psychological consequences for the injured party cannot be stopped.”

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The Bulgarian National Television (BNT), the Bulgarian National Radio (BNR) and bTV reported that Justice Minister Georgi Georgiev said, “One of the main problems was slow justice. It was obvious that the system was not performing well.” Georgiev’s comments came after another protest against road fatalities, organised by the association Angels on the Road in front of the Palace of Justice in Sofia. The demonstration proceeded to the Ministry of Justice and the Road Infrastructure Agency.

The minister announced that his team had prepared a bill to speed up court proceedings, stating it would be published for public consultation the next day. “We introduced exams for all experts to obtain credentials, mandatory yearly training for them, and powers for the justice minister to request the removal of experts who slow down cases,” Georgiev said. He noted that only 10–15 of the roughly 300 experts in Bulgaria were engaged in all court proceedings, contributing to delays.

Georgiev added that the proposed reforms would allow videoconferencing so experts could testify remotely and avoid repetitive travel. He also revealed they were drafting legislation to enforce stricter penalties for speeding violations through camera-based systems, ensuring “punishment was inevitable, so as not to encourage recidivism.” He underscored that road-surface expertise would become a separate category of assessment, emphasising the importance of “a high-quality and efficient justice process.”

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BNR reported that lawyer Adela Kachaunova from the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee said Bulgaria could not deport Saudi journalist and asylum-seeker Abdulrahman Al-Khalidi until his status was decided. Al-Khalidi had been detained for over three years and risked a death sentence if returned to Saudi Arabia. Kachaunova warned that sending him back would violate Bulgarian and international law, adding that continued detention beyond 18 months was unlawful and that a third safe country might be the best solution.

HEALTHCARE

BNT reported on April 7 that this day was observed as World Health Day, celebrating doctors, dentists, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and others committed to public well-being. The occasion had been recognized as a healthcare holiday since 1949, following a decision by the first World Health Assembly.

Health Minister Silvi Kirilov posted a message on the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page, thanking medical professionals for their “tireless energy” and urging them not to abandon their commitment to helping people. He emphasized that success in medicine required “knowledge, experience, responsibility, self-control, dedication, and effort,” and recalled that future specialists learned to make “swift, sometimes life-defining decisions” from their earliest training. Kirilov noted that for 77 years, the world had used April 7 to honour “the greatest value in every person’s life—health” and praised the daily work of healthcare providers, citing numerous letters of gratitude received by the ministry.

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov also extended congratulations to healthcare workers, joining in the national and global observance of World Health Day.

CULTURE

Trud covers urgent rescue archaeological research at Heraclea Sintica, launched because of the Bulgaria–Greece gas pipeline expansion. The investor, Bulgartransgaz, finances the excavations. Three teams from the Institute of Archaeology with museum at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences are on site, notes project leader Lyudmil Vagalinski. Two groups work on the outskirts of the ancient city, and one team focuses on the area near Mitino. The salvage digs cover a large zone between Sandanski and Petrich (Southwestern Bulgaria) where the pipeline network expands. Under the approved procedure, these territories undergo study for archaeological structures. Regular excavations of the central square in the Heraclea Sintica forum begin in July.

ENVIRONMENT

BNR reported that pollution with nitrogen oxide in Sofia rose in 2024, according to the environmental association Za Zemyata. They measured levels at multiple points around the city and found that in over 90% of these locations, annual concentrations exceeded the legal limit, and all were above the recommendations of the World Health Organization. Measurements near schools showed levels above the legal norm next to eight out of nine monitored sites. The organisation concluded that the problem was not seasonal but persisted year-round.