site.btaMedia Review: May 2

POLITICS 

In an opinion piece by Emilia Milcheva for Deutsche Welle, republished by Dnevnik, she describes an unprecedented wave of local mayors joining Delyan Peevski’s political project MRF – New Beginning. Though Peevski’s faction has not officially contested local elections, it now ranks second after GERB in terms of mayoral support, with 34 mayors aligning with the party.

This phenomenon raises serious concerns about democratic integrity in Bulgaria. Many of these mayors were elected under other political banners (including MRF, the Green Movement, and various coalitions), but have since declared loyalty to Peevski’s platform, often with public photo ops and press releases. The moves appear strategic—seeking access to influence and resources—rather than ideologically driven.

Notably, Peevski’s party has extended its reach beyond traditional MRF strongholds in mixed-ethnicity areas to regions like Kyustendil and Silistra. High-profile figures like the mayor of Simitli, who is under investigation by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, have publicly praised Peevski and joined his ranks.

Critics argue this trend undermines voters' choices, as mayors elected under one platform are effectively switching sides with no legal consequences or avenues for public recourse. The trend is seen as part of Peevski's broader strategy to gain local influence in preparation for future elections.

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Bulgaria’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Grozdan Karadjov ruled out the possibility of snap elections in 2025, reaffirming the government's full four-year mandate. Speaking to Bulgarian National TV, Karadjov emphasized that the focus must remain on Bulgaria’s accession to the eurozone and regaining control over the national budget, which he described as “completely out of hand.”

“There is no chance of elections this year. We need to enter the eurozone, and that cannot happen if we plunge into another electoral cycle,” Karadjov said. “The budget is in disarray, with growing deficits accumulating every month. That must be brought under control.”

He expressed confidence that the parliamentary majority backing the government is largely stable and stressed that public approval, not backroom deals, is key to sustaining that support. “We’re seeing increasingly diverse majorities in Parliament. The bills and measures we submit are mostly consensus-based,” he said, dismissing speculation over the disproportionate influence of the MRF–New Beginning faction and controversial figure Delyan Peevski.

Karadjov also noted a shifting political balance in the legislature, with greater responsibility now falling on Democratic Bulgaria and Continue the Change. “Going forward, it is their responsible behavior during voting that will determine the government’s fate—not that of Peevski,” he added.

On road safety, the minister said the government aims to implement new measures by October 2025, with visible results expected the following year. These include targeting habitual traffic violators, installing speed cameras, issuing on-the-spot fines, and prioritizing high-quality road maintenance.

He announced that 36 dangerous road sections, including the infamous Kresna Gorge, will be equipped with physical safety barriers. Additional improvements are planned for the Ruse–Byala route and over 500 kilometers of risky segments across highways and major roads, where issues like poor road incline and aquaplaning have been identified.

“These repairs and safety measures are a top priority and will be completed by October,” Karadjov said.

F-16 FIGHTERS

A renewed political clash has erupted between Bulgarian President Rumen Radev and former prime minister and leader of the GERB political party, Boyko Borissov, over the country's procurement of U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets. The dispute intensified following reports of system malfunctions in the newly delivered aircraft, raising concerns about the readiness of Bulgaria's defense infrastructure.

NOVA TV: Why did the indirect quarrel between GERB leader Boyko Borissov and President Rumen Radev erupt over the ‘system failure’ of the F-16? The topic was discussed in the studio by journalists Georgi Marchev and Kalina Krumova.

According to Krumova, the issue stems from an “interpersonal conflict” and there is always an excuse. “This conflict hadn’t flared up for a long time. After all, the MPs are on vacation. There has to be something to talk about,” she emphasized. She also reminded viewers that 2026—when the president’s term expires—is still ahead. “We have been talking for several years about this so-called future and potential party of Radev, and we’re still waiting. Several waves toward its creation were missed, which would have been a very good opportunity. In my view, there are two possibilities now. Either a new such wave will be created, from which something will finally happen, or this Tom-and-Jerry teasing will simply continue in full force,” the journalist stated.

Marchev shared his opinion that “this light teasing” between Radev and Borissov might be the beginning of a wave that will mark the start “of a party or some kind of informal structure.”

“As for the fighter jets, it’s not a new issue. The president insisted on purchasing different fighters, not the F-16s. So there is a search for some consistency in what Radev says. And in what capacity Boyko Borissov is demanding resignations—that is an interesting question. He is the chairman of a party—yes, it’s true he is in government, but from time to time he tries to appear as if he has nothing to do with the cabinet,” he stressed.

18-YEAR OLD GIRL’S MURDER 

The recent murder of an 18 year-old girl in the southeastern town of Haskovo and the ensuing backlash are covered extensively by the media. 

Mediapool leads this story. Interior Minister Daniel Mitov has requested the resignation of the chief of police in Haskovo , Ivan Rasokov. This was reported on Friday by BNR (Bulgarian National Radio), citing its own sources. So far, the information has neither been officially confirmed nor denied.

The reasons are related to Rasokov’s statements concerning the case of the murder of 18-year-old Magdalena Ruseva from Haskovo. Director Ivan Rasokov initially stated that the investigation was proceeding under the theory that the girl had run away. Later, the young woman was found dead in an abandoned house.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested as the perpetrator of the murder.

On Thursday evening, the situation in Haskovo escalated sharply—protesters damaged the entrance of the local police station and demanded the resignation of the regional police director. He responded that he would resign only if asked to do so by the Minister of the Interior.

bTV contributes by reporting that many of the protesters were teenagers and they threw tomatoes at the police building in Haskovo. 

NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE FUND CHIEF – INTERVIEW

24 Chasa runs ain interview with the newly appointed head of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), Prof. Stefan Stefanovski, in which he outlined his key priorities for the future of healthcare in Bulgaria. Speaking about the negotiations with the Bulgarian Medical Association (BMA) and other health organizations, he emphasized his commitment to improving prevention, health screenings, and ensuring that Bulgarian citizens receive high-quality medical care.

Prof. Stefanovski highlighted that one of his main priorities is to improve preventive care and disease prevention services for insured citizens. He stressed that while there will be no sanctions for missed screenings, citizens should take advantage of the free preventive services offered by the NHIF. As part of the upcoming reforms, new screenings will be introduced under updated regulations in line with the Ministry of Health's changes.

The 2025 budget for the NHIF has been set at a record BGN 9.5 billion, which Stefanovski believes will be sufficient to cover the needs of insured citizens. The funding will be allocated toward a variety of healthcare initiatives, with a particular focus on improving prevention and ensuring that no patient is left without the care they need. "The allocated funds will allow us to meet the healthcare needs of insured Bulgarian citizens, and we are committed to making sure that medical professionals can continue their work in a stable environment," said Stefanovski.

In response to reports of overbilling and abuse in both private and state-run hospitals, Prof. Stefanovski acknowledged the issue and confirmed that the NHIF is actively working to address it. "We are receiving increasing reports from citizens, which is helping us tackle this problem. Our control bodies are also working around the clock to prevent these unethical practices," he stated. He added that sanctions for such activities would include partial termination of contracts and reimbursement of unjustly received funds.

In a bid to improve cancer care, the NHIF has allocated BGN 5 million for specific tests related to biomarker diagnostics. Prof. Stefanovski revealed that the NHIF is in talks with the Bulgarian Medical Association to integrate these tests into the framework agreements for 2023-2025. "The state should cover these essential tests as part of our commitment to improving cancer diagnosis," he stated.

Digitalization in healthcare is another area of focus for the new NHIF head. Prof. Stefanovski has prioritized the integration of NHIF data with the National Health Information System (NHIS). This initiative will enable patients to access their health records via the eHealth mobile application, helping both citizens and healthcare providers to manage medical data more efficiently.

“The digitalization of the system is crucial for improving the quality of healthcare services and reducing waiting times. It also allows patients to have better control over their health information and safeguard the system from potential misuse," Prof. Stefanovski explained.

Looking ahead, the NHIF plans to expand its electronic services further. New features in the eHealth app will allow patients to receive timely notifications regarding prescriptions, test results, and medical appointments. Additionally, the NHIF is working on real-time controls for medications and medical devices prescribed by healthcare providers. This move is aimed at enhancing transparency and preventing misuse of public funds.

Prof. Stefanovski's long-term goal is to ensure that Bulgarian citizens receive healthcare that matches the standards of other EU countries. He also aims to reduce administrative burdens for both insured citizens and healthcare providers.

"By the end of my term, I want all Bulgarian citizens to receive the same level of care as people in other EU countries," said Stefanovski. "We are focused on improving the quality of care, reducing bureaucracy, and ensuring that every insured citizen has access to the medical services they need."

HOME SCENE – TRAFFIC - HOLIDAYS

Duma: Bulgarian authorities are anticipating a sharp increase in road traffic during the extended holiday weekend surrounding May 1 (Labour Day) and May 6 (St. George’s Day), with thousands of travelers taking advantage of the opportunity to link public holidays for a longer break.

The Ministry of the Interior has deployed nearly 1,000 police units nationwide to manage the surge in traffic, particularly on routes leading to the Greek border, where significant delays were reported during the recent Easter holiday period.

To mitigate congestion, traffic flow adjustments have been implemented on key motorways. On Tuesday, May 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., two lanes will be open in the Topli Dol and Praveshki Khanove tunnels on the Hemus Motorway toward Sofia to accommodate higher volumes of passenger vehicles.

In addition, from May 2 to May 4, heavy goods vehicles over 12 tonnes will be diverted to alternative routes to free up space on the motorways for lighter traffic.

Police authorities will also conduct specialized operations on targeting driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, unlicensed driving, and speeding. Additional patrols are scheduled for Friday, May 2, between 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., particularly along high-risk road sections.

From May 4 to 6, patrols will be intensified on major highways, first-class roads, and known accident hotspots between 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. More than 820 technical devices will be in use nationwide — including over 300 for speed monitoring and more than 300 for testing drivers for alcohol and narcotics.

Officials are urging drivers to plan ahead, obey traffic regulations, and drive responsibly. 

WORLD

Trud’s main story is about trade between the US and China, which says it is evaluating the possibility of trade talks with the U.S., the first sign since Donald Trump raised tariffs last month that negotiations between the two countries could begin, Bloomberg reports.

In a statement on Friday, China’s Ministry of Commerce said it noted that senior U.S. officials had repeatedly expressed a willingness to negotiate with Beijing on tariffs and urged officials in Washington to show "sincerity" towards China.

"The U.S. recently sent messages to China through the relevant parties, hoping to start negotiations with China," the ministry added. "China is currently evaluating this."

Futures on the S&P 500 erased early losses in Asia, and the regional stock indicator turned positive after the statement. The Hang Seng China Enterprises Index gained more than 1%, while mainland markets were closed due to a holiday. The offshore yuan rose by 0.3% to 7.2566 per dollar, while the Australian dollar also continued to gain.

The statement signals that the deadlock between the world’s two largest economies may change after Trump raised U.S. tariffs to the highest level in a century, with Beijing responding in kind. Trump has repeatedly said that President Xi Jinping needs to contact him to start talks on tariffs. Earlier this week, Treasury Secretary Scott Besent said that Beijing must take the first step in de-escalating the dispute.