The 52nd National Assembly in Bulgaria convened for its inaugural session on Thursday. Following the split of the Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria (CC-DB) coalition on Wednesday, six parliamentary groups were formed. Progressive Bulgaria MP Mihaela Dotsova was elected as the National Assembly Chair, with support from her coalition, GERB-UDF, and the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF); other political forces abstained from voting.
The session began with the oath administered to the 240 lawmakers by the oldest representative present, 78-year-old Progressive Bulgaria MP Rumen Milanov. During the proceedings, the Bulgarian national anthem and the anthem of Europe were played. President Iliana Iotova addressed the assembly, emphasizing that a key function of the legislature must be the 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 should be valued equally among the 27 Member States. Following the formation of the six parliamentary groups, each elected a Deputy Chair. During her address, Dotsova stated that the primary challenge is to restore best practices in Bulgarian lawmaking, ensuring processes are predictable and based on debate rather than mere formalism.
The political factions presented declarations outlining their roles. Progressive Bulgaria prioritized passing the State budget and addressing treasury issues, alongside establishing a new Supreme Judicial Council. GERB-UDF stated its readiness to act as a constructive, centre-right opposition.
CC-DB affirmed its commitment to defending the rule of law and Bulgaria’s European trajectory. MRF committed to supporting policies that protect rights and promote economic stability. Finally, Vazrazhdane declared its intent to serve as the nation’s conscience.
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