Georgi Kandev, the acting Secretary General of the Ministry of Interior, stated on Friday that he faced external pressure. In a video posted to Facebook, Kandev reported receiving calls on Thursday from unknown numbers via a mobile application. He claimed that during these calls, he was informed that an individual known as “Kartofa,” along with associates, was providing false testimony against him at the Sofia City Prosecution Office (SCPO).
Kandev alleged that this effort was organized by a former official within the Ministry. The Secretary General questioned the SCPO regarding the veracity of the testimony and the individuals orchestrating the situation. In his statement, Kandev asserted, “Silence is not an option.
I will not back down!”
Prime Minister Andrey Gurov publicly supported Kandev, asserting that the caretaker government and Bulgarian citizens stood behind him. Gurov characterized the alleged pressure at the SCPO as a “vendetta,” specifically naming prosecutor Emilia Rusinova and former magistrate Petyo Petrov. Interior Minister Emil Dechev also backed Kandev, alleging that “old cops” were employing improper tactics to undermine the Ministry.
Dechev expressed confidence in the Secretary General’s integrity, noting the government’s determination to minimize electoral crimes. Other political figures weighed in on the situation. Assen Vassilev described the threats as “scandalous,” advocating for judicial restructuring.
Meanwhile, the Yes, Bulgaria party accused prosecutors of being utilized to target officials engaged in institutional reform, referencing perceived influence from figures
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