Mihaela Dotsova of Progressive Bulgaria was elected Chair of Parliament during the inaugural session of the 52nd National Assembly in Bulgaria on Thursday. Her nomination received support from 188 Members of Parliament representing Progressive Bulgaria, GERB-UDF, and the Movement for Rights and Freedom, with no recorded votes against. Conversely, Peter Petrov, nominated by Vazrazhdane, garnered support from 12 MPs, faced 175 votes against, and recorded 50 abstentions.
Addressing the assembly, Mihaela Dotsova stated that the primary challenge facing the legislature is to reinstate best practices in Bulgarian lawmaking. She advocated for a process that is predictable and founded on robust debate, rather than being dictated by procedural formalities. Dotsova emphasized that legislation must incorporate impact assessments rather than being assembled arbitrarily.
She urged that the legislative work of MPs prioritize the sustainability of decisions over short-term political considerations. “Today more than ever, Bulgaria needs not only sustainable governance but also the restoration of the rule of law,” she asserted, adding that the nation faces the ongoing challenge of strengthening a lawful and independent state. Mihaela Dotsova is a 42-year-old lawyer who ran as the top-of-the-list candidate for Progressive Bulgaria in Sofia’s 23rd multi-member constituency.
Her professional background includes extensive experience within the Ministry of Environment and Water, where she served for over seven years, including heading the Legal Directorate. She also held roles as chief secretary and head of the minister’s cabinet. Dotsova holds a PhD in Administrative Law and Administrative Procedure and has published over 13 scientific works.
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