“Everything is work for me. Even when GERB is in an election campaign, we again talk about specific projects, plans and programs, which distinguishes us from everyone else. I’m hoping for some sanity from Monday, although I’m not very optimistic. There is nothing more normal and natural than that, if everyone wants to work and meet the expectations of the people, to solve their problems, the first political force to get support for the Speaker of the National Assembly. We act on principle and we expect everyone else to act in the same way,” commented Yordanka Fandakova, elected deputy of GERB-SDS to NOVA NEWS.
“The proposals of GERB-SDS for candidates for the Speaker of the Parliament are Raya Nazaryan and Rosen Zhelyazkov. They were presidents of the National Assembly and are highly respected. From the first day after the elections, the PP-DB began to set conditions and showed a complete refusal of dialogue. This is because they don’t want a government and are pushing the country towards early elections,” she added.
She explained that there is no information whether any of the other political formations would support the nomination of GERB-SDS for the Speaker of the Parliament. ”If we all want to work, let them support our candidate. GERB-SDS categorically would not support a candidate from another political formation,” Fandakova added.
“If there had been a dialogue between GERB-SDS and PP-DB, we would have discussed who should be our third partner, but there was no such conversation. A very important test is coming up on Monday. If there is support for the chairman of the National Assembly for the candidate of the largest political force in our country, then we are ready to enter into a dialogue. The other options for a minority government are possible but unlikely.
Fandakova also commented on the tension surrounding the National Theatre. “Such shameful scenes of aggression against actors and the public are absolutely unacceptable. I see a lack of coordination and dialogue between the two institutions that are responsible for such events – the SDVR and the Capital Municipality. When I was mayor and risky events were coming up, we made a joint headquarters. We were continuously available if an order to terminate the event had to be issued. In the situation with the National Theater, I did not see such a thing,” she added.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Political Expert on Bulgaria’s Current Political Climate
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us today. We’re here with Dr. Elena Markova, a renowned political analyst specializing in Eastern European politics. Dr. Markova, what are your thoughts on the recent comments made by Yordanka Fandakova from GERB-SDS? She highlights a focus on tangible projects amid political campaigning. How significant is this approach in the current Bulgarian political landscape?
Dr. Elena Markova (DEM): Good afternoon! Fandakova’s comments are indeed intriguing. In a political environment often overshadowed by rhetoric and partisanship, her emphasis on concrete projects and solutions could resonate with voters who are tired of empty promises. It reflects a pragmatic approach, suggesting that GERB-SDS aims to distinguish itself by being action-oriented, which might be essential in regaining public trust.
TNE: You mentioned public trust. Fandakova also expressed a concern about the lack of dialogue from the rival coalition, PP-DB, suggesting they are not interested in forming a government. What does this say about the current political climate and the potential for cooperation?
DEM: The absence of dialogue can be a critical issue. Fandakova’s observations are indicative of a broader problem in Bulgarian politics: fragmentation and mistrust. If opposition parties, like PP-DB, are perceived as unwilling to engage, it not only hinders the possibility of forming a stable government but also contributes to political polarization. This scenario could lead us towards a cycle of instability, where early elections might seem like the only option.
TNE: You referenced early elections. Do you think that’s a likely scenario given the tensions noted by Fandakova? What would be the implications of such an outcome for Bulgaria?
DEM: I believe there’s an increasing chance of early elections, especially if major parties fail to reach an agreement. Such a move could bring both risks and opportunities. On one hand, it might allow voters to express their desires more clearly through new elections. On the other hand, it might exacerbate political instability, leading to a situation where parties could become entrenched in their positions rather than seeking compromise.
TNE: Fandakova mentioned specific candidates for the Speaker of the National Assembly and their past experiences. How important is the selection of parliamentary leadership in shaping a government’s agenda?
DEM: Very important. The Speaker of the National Assembly plays a vital role in managing the legislative agenda and facilitating discussions. Candidates like Raya Nazaryan and Rosen Zhelyazkov, both experienced, could foster a more constructive atmosphere in Parliament. Their leadership might also influence party dynamics, perhaps encouraging cooperation over conflict. However, it ultimately depends on the willingness of all parties to engage in dialogue, regardless of leadership.
TNE: As we look ahead, what should constituents keep an eye out for in the coming weeks and months regarding political developments in Bulgaria?
DEM: Constituents should monitor the interactions among party leaders, especially any indications of openness to dialogue. The formation of coalitions, even informal ones, will be telling. Additionally, look for shifts in public sentiment, as voter expectations can significantly impact party strategies. Ultimately, the landscape remains highly fluid, and how parties navigate this period of uncertainty will be crucial for the future of Bulgarian governance.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Markova, for your insightful analysis. It seems we are on the cusp of some significant developments in Bulgarian politics, and your expertise sheds light on what we can anticipate.
DEM: Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss the evolving political dynamics in Bulgaria, and I look forward to seeing how the situation unfolds.