site.btaEntrepreneurs, Academics, Athletes Launch Movement Calling for Referendum on Presidential Republic in Bulgaria

A group of Bulgarian entrepreneurs, scholars, and athletes have formed a civic movement seeking to initiate a national referendum on transforming Bulgaria from a parliamentary to a presidential republic. The civic movement was officially presented on Tuesday at a press conference at the BTA National Press Club in Sofia. Prof. Ivo Velikov, who will chair the Sofia branch, said the initiative brings together volunteers of all ages and professions who believe that the current parliamentary system has “run its course.”

Velikov argued that the system of a presidential republic would strengthen accountability and curb corruption, citing Romania as an example where broader presidential powers have improved governance. He added that more than 1,000 people have already signed up as volunteers for the movement, which aims to promote debate on a change of the system of government based on expanded presidential authority and clear separation of powers.

Movement coordinator Krasimir Yankov emphasized that the initiative is not a political party but a civic campaign to collect the signatures required to call a national referendum. “We want the Bulgarian people to decide through a referendum whether they support a presidential republic,” Yankov said, adding that the group also advocates reducing the number of members of parliament to 120 and introducing mechanisms for their recall.

The organizers said they hope a Grand National Assembly could be convened after the 2027 elections to implement potential constitutional changes.