The 52nd national assembly convened for its inaugural session on Thursday. Following the decision by the Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria (CC-DB) coalition to split, six distinct parliamentary groups were formed. Newly sworn-in Members of Parliament (MPs) elected Progressive Bulgaria MP Mihaela Dotsova as the National Assembly Chair.
The session commenced with the address by the oldest representative present, 78-year-old Progressive Bulgaria MP Rumen Milanov, who administered the oath to the 240 lawmakers. President Iliana Iotova addressed the assembly, emphasizing the legislature’s critical role in voting on the 2026 State budget and urging Bulgaria to project a stronger voice within the European Union. Dotsova’s election as Chair received support from her coalition, GERB-UDF, and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF), while other political forces abstained.
Subsequently, each parliamentary group elected a Deputy Chair. Dotsova stated that the primary challenge facing the assembly was restoring best practices in Bulgarian lawmaking, advocating for a process rooted in debate rather than mere procedure. Following the announcement of the six groups—Progressive Bulgaria, GERB-UDF, Democratic Bulgaria, MRF, Continue the Change, and Vazrazhdane—each read declarations outlining their priorities.
Key focuses included passing the State budget, addressing treasury issues, and curbing speculation. Progressive Bulgaria highlighted the need for electing a new Supreme Judicial Council and prosecutor general. GERB-UDF stated its readiness to act as a constructive opposition, accepting the election outcome.
Democratic Bulgaria affirmed its commitment to defending the rule of law and preserving Bulgaria’s European trajectory. MRF focused on defending rights, economic stability, and modernization. Vazrazhdane declared its role as the nation’s conscience, emphasizing the need to speak the truth and advocating for the return of the Bulgarian lev.
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The formation of six distinct groups immediately after the session suggests significant political fragmentation.