site.btaProgressive Bulgaria Party Founded in Veliko Tarnovo

A new political formation, Progressive Bulgaria, was founded in Veliko Tarnovo on Friday, with former president (2017-2026) Rumen Radev unanimously elected as its leader.

Radev said the party's creation responds to strong public expectations and expressed confidence that its programme would be translated into long-term policies. "We are a team of like-minded people and will work swiftly, as there is a lot of work ahead," he said.

He added that the results of the upcoming snap elections would determine the composition of the next parliament, stressing the need for a regular, stable and effective government. "In the current crises, new elections are not a solution," he said, adding the party would operate on democratic principles with clear statutory mechanisms.

The founding assembly was attended by 620 delegates, who elected a 15-member Executive Council and a Control Council.

Addressing supporters in central Veliko Tarnovo, Radev said he had chosen the city for the launch due to its role as a historical and spiritual capital of Bulgaria. He also criticized the caretaker government, accusing it of engaging in "witch-hunts" and hybrid attacks related to the elections.