The 52nd National Assembly convened for its inaugural session on Thursday. The proceedings began with the oath administered to the 240 lawmakers by Progressive Bulgaria MP Rumen Milanov. Following the playing of national anthems, President Iliana Iotova addressed the members, emphasizing that the legislature must prioritize voting on the 2026 State budget.
She urged that Bulgaria adopt a more assertive stance within the European Union, asserting that the nation’s viewpoint is valued among the 27 Member States. Mihaela Dotsova of Progressive Bulgaria was elected as the National Assembly Chair, supported by her coalition, GERB-UDF, and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF). Following the announcement of the six distinct parliamentary groups, each elected its own Deputy Chair.
During subsequent speeches, the newly formed groups outlined their respective agendas for the Bulgarian parliament. Dotsova stated that the primary goal is to restore predictable lawmaking processes based on debate rather than mere procedure. Opposition leaders, including representatives from GERB-UDF, CC-DB, and MRF, emphasized strengthening the rule of law, curbing speculation, and ensuring state modernization.
The parties collectively signaled a commitment to constructive opposition, focusing on defending citizens’ rights, economic stability, and Bulgaria’s European trajectory. Representatives from various factions highlighted the need for oversight, arguing that their support would be contingent on measures that advance the public interest and address institutional shortcomings within the national government.
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