site.btaMPs Boyko Borissov and Delyan Peevski Lose National Protection Service Security Detail

The National Service for Protection (NSP) has removed the security detail assigned to GERB Chair Boyko Borissov and Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) Chair Delyan Peevski. According to Interior Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev, the decision is based on an analysis of data from the competent authorities. The MRF noted that the analysis had been requested by Peevski in December and was carried out by a specialized commission under the NSP Act.

In the new National Assembly, inaugurated on April 30, the parliamentary groups of Continue the Change and Democratic Bulgaria moved two separate bills seeking to restrict the range of people eligible for NSP protection. Peevski's NSP security detail became a matter of political controversy in 2025.

Reactions

GERB leader Boyko Borissov: I am glad there is no longer any information in the Bulgarian services about internal or external threats against me. I am glad that I am now a safe and free Bulgarian citizen.

GERB deputy leader Tomislav Donchev: This seems like an emotional, political decision, but by no means an institutional one. Mr Borissov is a former prime minister and former secretary general of the Ministry of Interior and has problems (as a target of) organized crime. In Bulgaria, there is a long-standing problem regarding the safety and security of former prime ministers.

MRF leader Delyan Peevski: I believe in the competence of State bodies and in their expertise, and in their responsibility when making decisions. This sends one propaganda talking point of Continue the Change and Democratic Bulgaria into the rubbish bin. That is good news.

Democratic Bulgaria MP Ivaylo Mirchev: Such decisions are political rather than based on professional and expert assessments. A commission decision about 10 days ago meant that Peevski's and Borissov's protection should continue. The difference now is that the chief of the State Agency for National Security has changed and no longer serves Peevski. Removing the security details saves millions a year.

Progressive Bulgaria: When institutions do their job, there is no need for specialized legislation. In the cases of Peevski and Borissov, it was obvious that there was no need for personal protection from the NSP. The new government, formed by Progressive Bulgaria, has shown that we are keeping our promise to change Bulgaria and to restore order and legality.

Vazrazhdane MP Tsoncho Ganev: It was about time the government took its first step in the right direction. We are pleased and welcome the decision about Borissov, which is an overdue step on the part of those in power in recent years. As for Peevski, he effectively withdrew his request for security protection.