The acting Secretary General of the Ministry of Interior, Georgi Kandev, stated on Friday that he had faced pressure following allegations of misconduct. In a video statement, Kandev reported receiving multiple calls on Thursday, including messages urging him to “go home.” He claimed that at that time, he was informed via mobile apps that an individual nicknamed “Kartofa” and his associates were providing false testimony against him at the Sofia City Prosecution Office (SCPO). Kandev alleged this situation was orchestrated by a former official within the Ministry.
Prime Minister Andrey Gurov publicly supported the acting Secretary General, describing the pressure as a “vendetta” occurring at the SCPO under prosecutor Emilia Rusinova. Gurov also criticized a former investigating magistrate, Petyo Petrov, alleging his role in influencing the judiciary. Interior Minister Emil Dechev voiced full support for Kandev, asserting that “old cops” were employing improper tactics to undermine the secretary general.
Dechev emphasized the ministry’s commitment to minimizing electoral fraud. Opposition figures also weighed in on the controversy. Assen Vassilev criticized the threats against Kandev as scandalous, advocating for judicial restructuring.
Meanwhile, the Yes, Bulgaria party accused prosecutors of being utilized to target officials involved in institutional reform, suggesting the process mirrored a “Borissov-Peevski model.” These statements underscore the ongoing political tension surrounding Kandev’s position within the ministry and his defense against the allegations.
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