The acting Secretary General of the Ministry of Interior, Georgi Kandev, publicly stated that he has been subjected to pressure. In a video statement, Kandev detailed receiving multiple calls on Thursday, including messages urging him to leave. He alleged that at that time, an individual known as “Kartofa” and his associates were providing false testimony against him at the Sofia City Prosecution Office (SCPO).
Kandev further claimed that the scenario was allegedly organized by a former official from the Ministry of Interior named “Svetlyo.” The Secretary General questioned the SCPO regarding the validity of the testimony provided by individuals who were supposedly convicted or criminally charged, and questioned the timing and source of the pressure. Prime Minister Andrey Gurov issued a statement expressing full support for Kandev, characterizing the pressure as a “vendetta” occurring at the SCPO under prosecutor Emilia Rusinova. Gurov also linked the alleged pressure to broader efforts to curb actions perceived as undermining the recent elections.
Interior Minister Emil Dechev echoed the support for Kandev, stating that elements within the police force were employing improper tactics to undermine the Secretary General. Dechev affirmed the commitment of the caretaker government and the Ministry to minimize electoral misconduct. Other political figures also addressed the situation.
Assen Vassilev criticized the threats as scandalous, advocating for systemic reform within the judiciary. Meanwhile, the Yes, Bulgaria party accused prosecutors of targeting officials engaged in institutional reform, suggesting the service was being utilized in a manner reminiscent of past political influence.
Topics: #kandev #ministry #secretary
