The decline in BSP‘s electoral results has stopped, but we have to be realistic because it has continued for the past three years. However, all kinds of developments are possible from here to there. Only with the replacement of Korleniya Ninova, without the change of policies, there will be no upheaval. However, everything is in the hands of the party itself. This is what former Prime Minister Sergey Stanishev told NOVA NEWS.
To the question of electing a leader of the BSP, he answered: “During the last four years in the BSP, we witnessed the contestation of decisions that were taken without a quorum, with manipulations - from Congress to the National Council. Why would we think anything would be different.” And commented on the idea of his candidacy like this: “I’m not going to legitimize something that doesn’t have enough trust and integrity as a process.”
Stanishev said that “the BSP needs to heal for a long time, it needs a very serious change, not just removal of the leader, as happened”.
“The BSP must tackle its internal problems and heal the atmosphere. It is more useful for him to remain in the opposition, because if he enters any form of government, he will be in a weak position,” Stanishev said.
“Two parties can be the basis of governance – jointly. These are GERB-SDS and PP-DB. Third could be ITN, they give signs that they are ready. Conversations must be had. And to take responsibility,” said the former prime minister.
“GERB-SDS gave a clear indication that if a government is to be formed, it should be with their mandate,” Stanishev pointed out.
He also commented on the division of DPS. “If we take the total between the two factions, they will be the second political force with more percentages than in June,” explained Stanishev. He added that the conflict is acute and will be difficult to resolve.
“Bulgaria is a member of the EU. I, as Prime Minister, have finalized this process. This is where our economy is, our future. That is why I called for us to start behaving like a full member of the EU, to form policies. The Union is undergoing and will continue to undergo very serious, dramatic changes in priorities, in attempts to become competitive again with the USA and China,” Stanishev said. He added that “we, as a member of the EU, must develop active interactions with many countries from BRICS”.
The former prime minister said that the whole world is waiting to see what will happen in the US elections. “America will also change, it will be much more self-centered,” he added.
Interview Between the Time.news Editor and Sergey Stanishev
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Mr. Stanishev. Thank you for joining us today. Your insights into the BSP’s electoral challenges have been quite illuminating. Let’s start with your assessment: what do you believe has contributed to the BSP’s declining electoral results over the past three years?
Sergey Stanishev: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. The decline in electoral results for the BSP can be attributed to a combination of internal strife and the failure to effectively communicate our policies to the electorate. For the last few years, there has been a tangible disconnect between the party leadership and grassroots members, compounded by decisions made without proper consensus.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the need for a serious change within the BSP. Do you think that simply replacing the current leader, Korleniya Ninova, would be sufficient to initiate this change?
Sergey Stanishev: Replacing the leader alone will not bring about the necessary transformation. We must remember that leadership is not just about individuals; it’s about the policies and the internal cohesion of the party. If we only change the leader without addressing the underlying issues—especially the lack of trust and integrity in our decision-making processes—then we risk repeating past mistakes.
Time.news Editor: You’ve characterized the internal decision-making in the BSP as plagued by “manipulations” and “contestation.” How do you envision creating a more legitimate and trustworthy process within the party moving forward?
Sergey Stanishev: The first step is to establish an environment where dialogue is encouraged and all voices are heard. We need to ensure that decisions are made with proper quorum and that there is transparency in the process. It’s essential for party members to feel that their opinions matter and that the leadership is acting in the best interest of the party as a whole.
Time.news Editor: You seem to advocate for the BSP to remain in opposition for now. Why do you believe this is more beneficial for the party at this stage?
Sergey Stanishev: Remaining in opposition allows the BSP to regroup and address its internal challenges without the pressures of governance, where we would be in a comparatively weaker position. It provides an opportunity to reflect, heal, and devise a clearer vision for our future. If we enter a governing role while still reeling from internal turmoil, our ability to effect change will be severely hindered.
Time.news Editor: You have mentioned the potential for two parties to form the basis of governance. Can you elaborate on this?
Sergey Stanishev: Absolutely. I believe that collaboration between two parties could result in a more stable governance structure. This necessitates a commitment to shared goals, respect for each other’s principles, and a willingness to work towards common objectives. It’s not about merging ideologies but about finding common ground where both parties can contribute positively to the governance of our country.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Stanishev. Your perspectives on the BSP’s challenges and future strategies shed light on the complexities facing the party today. We appreciate your time and insights.
Sergey Stanishev: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we engage in these conversations, not just within the party but with the broader public as well. Only through transparency and dialogue can we truly move forward.