The 52nd National Assembly convened for its inaugural session on Thursday. Following the dissolution of the Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria coalition on Wednesday, six parliamentary groups were established. Progressive Bulgaria MP Mihaela Dotsova was elected as the National Assembly Chair, supported by her coalition partners, GERB-UDF, and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF).
The session commenced with the oath administration to all 240 lawmakers by the oldest representative present, 78-year-old Progressive Bulgaria MP Rumen Milanov. During the session, President Iliana Iotova addressed the members, emphasizing the legislature’s crucial role in voting on the 2026 State budget. She urged Bulgaria to adopt a more assertive stance within the European Union, asserting that the nation’s viewpoint merits consideration equal to that of all 27 Member States.
After the formation of the six parliamentary groups, each elected a Deputy Chair. Dotsova addressed the assembly, stating that the primary goal must be to restore best practices in Bulgarian lawmaking, ensuring processes are predictable and debate-based rather than purely procedural. Representatives from the various groups presented declarations outlining their priorities.
Progressive Bulgaria highlighted the passage of the State budget and addressing treasury issues. GERB-UDF stated its readiness to act as a constructive, center-right opposition. Democratic Bulgaria affirmed its commitment to defending the rule of law.
The MRF emphasized supporting policies that protect citizens’ rights and economic stability. Vazrazhdane declared its intention to serve as the “nation’s conscience.”
Topics: #national #assembly #bulgaria
The 52nd National Assembly has commenced its inaugural session, resulting in the election of a Parliament Chair and the establishment of six distinct parliamentary groups.
What were the key disagreements among the groups that led to the dissolution of the Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria coalition?