Radev’s Coalition Holds Strong Lead After Bulgarian Vote

The Progressive Bulgaria coalition led by former President Rumen Radev has clearly won the early parliamentary elections and appears on course for an absolute majority in the 240-member parliament, according to interim results. With more than two-thirds of ballots counted, the bloc had secured over 44%.

The reformist alliance Continuing the Change – Democratic Bulgaria (PP-DB) came second with 14%, followed by the centre-right Citizens for European Development of Bulgaria (GERB) led by former prime minister Boyko Borissov on 13.1%.

The nationalist Rebirth party and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) are also set to enter parliament. Ahead of the vote, Radev ruled out post-election cooperation with GERB and openly stated his aim of governing independently.

Turnout exceeded 50%, a notable increase by Bulgarian standards in recent years. The country has now held its seventh snap election since 2021, and the result may signal an attempt to bring a prolonged period of political instability to an end.

During the campaign, Radev pledged to tackle corruption but has also advocated a more pragmatic relationship with Russia and criticized military aid to Ukraine.

(reuters, pir)