site.btaDemocratic Bulgaria Floor Leader: Election Victory Absolves Nobody from Responsibility

Democratic Bulgaria Floor Leader Nadejda Iordanova read a declaration in Parliament on Wednesday stating that an election victory does not absolve anyone of responsibility for the way in which it was achieved.

Iordanova said: "[The presidential] election is over, and from now on, the most important question is how tolerant those in power will be of the opposition's criticism and public discontent. [...] For weeks on end [during the election campaign], [Prime Minister] Rumen Radev and [President] Iliana Iotova turned war and fear into tools for political mobilization. Radev declared that Bulgarians were choosing between peace and war and accused his opponents of potentially dragging Bulgaria into a military conflict. Iotova promised she would not send Bulgarian soldiers to Ukraine, as if anyone had suggested otherwise."

She added: "On February 21, 2025, the National Assembly adopted, with the support of Continue the Change and Democratic Bulgaria, a declaration stating that Bulgarian armed forces would not participate in military operations in Ukraine. [...] When fear replaces facts and opponents are portrayed as enemies, democratic debate becomes impossible. Fear may mobilize voters, but it cannot build trust. It cannot unite society – it divides it."

The MP noted that the right to protest does not depend on the prime minister's approval. Protests cannot be legitimate only when they help someone gain power. Bulgarian citizens have the right to ask questions, criticize, and protest. In her words, the hallmarks of a democratic society are a free press, a strong opposition, and a government that is open to scrutiny rather than one that is demanding obedience.

Iordanova concluded: "Those in power must not forget December 2025. They must not forget what happens when those in power stop listening to the people, and that an incompetent budget, coupled with hubris and arrogance, can sweep away any government. A true commitment to democracy is not measured by how you respond to applause the day after a victory. It is measured by how you respond to criticism the very next day."