site.btaAndrey Gurov Emerges as CC-DB's Main Presidential Candidate Under Discussion, Denkov Says

Nikolay Denkov, Deputy Chairman of Continue the Change and MP from its coalition with Democratic Bulgaria, CC-DB, said that Andrey Gurov is currently the leading name among the bloc's potential presidential candidates, when asked whether CC-DB has agreed on a joint nominee.

"Gurov is caretaker Prime Minister and says he needs time to make up his mind. We could not possibly nominate someone who has not said he is ready to participate," Denkov said.

When asked on April 26 if he would run for president, Gurov said various groups had contacted him. "This is a serious matter that requires a serious approach. The caretaker cabinet was focused on the elections. There will be time for a little rest and reflection, and all questions will be answered," he said.

On Monday, Denkov dismissed speculation about tensions within CC-DB, saying someone is trying to manufacture drama over relations CC's with Democratic Bulgaria, while stressing that they remain two parties within a single coalition. Denkov noted there are scenarios in which CC-DB might choose not to form a single parliamentary group, adding that differences between the partners do exist.

Continue the Change is more centrist rather than a right-wing party, and aims to be a national party, with representation in all major population centres and across the country, Denkov said. This requires a different approach - the messages for central Sofia and those for other parts of Bulgaria differ significantly, he added.

Commenting on tasks facing the newly elected Parliament, which will hold its inaugural sitting on April 30, Denkov said one of the main tasks is the adoption of the 2026 budget, which should include a package of measures addressing rising fuel prices due to the crisis in Iran and the resulting higher inflation. Another key priority is to begin the process of reforming the judicial system, with the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) identified as a central focus.

Asked if CC-DB is ready to back Progressive Bulgaria on proposed changes to the SJC, Denkov said they would support the initiative provided the procedures are clearly and properly defined, stressing the need for a clear and open public mechanism.