Justice Minister Yankulov Urges Immediate Removal of Acting Prosecutor General, Calls for Swift Judicial Reform

Caretaker Justice Minister Andrey Yankulov stated on Monday that the judicial system should not remain under the leadership of an acting Prosecutor General whose tenure is deemed contrary to law and morality. Speaking after Sunday’s elections, Yankulov noted that the results clearly favored Progressive Bulgaria while marking a significant setback for established political entities perceived as maintaining the status quo within the judiciary. Yankulov emphasized that a key challenge for Bulgaria’s future is translating the public’s evident support for judicial reform into tangible political action.

He suggested that the poor showing for parties invested in maintaining the current judicial structure indicates that citizens view reform as an unavoidable necessity. The Minister expressed his hope that restoring legality within the prosecution service should be the initial step toward change, a process he believes should not be delayed pending the election of a new Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) composition. While advocating for a swift SJC election, Yankulov stressed that process integrity is paramount.

He argued that the selection process must guarantee the appointment of honest professionals committed to an independent judiciary, rather than one controlled by political parties. Regarding the SJC and its Prosecutors’ College, Yankulov suggested they have had sufficient time to recognize the situation and act professionally. He warned that if they fail to do so, the incoming parliament might address the matter through standard legislative measures early in its term.

This follows a Ministry of Justice publication in early April detailing competency models for senior judicial administrators, including the Prosecutor General and heads of various judicial bodies.

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