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Massive Procurement Irregularities Uncovered, Demerdzhiev Demands Peevski Probe

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A staggering 17 billion euros in public procurement contracts have been awarded without competitive bidding, with reports linking companies to 250 politicians. This revelation has intensified calls for greater transparency and accountability in public spending.

In a related development, Minister of Interior Ivan Demerdzhiev has formally requested the Account Chamber to audit the finances of Delyan Peevski, who is the leader of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms and a Member of the National Assembly. Meanwhile, the National Assembly has begun the procedure for electing members to the Supreme Judicial Council, and a new state system for tender transparency has launched, though critics note its lack of key features.

The political scene also sees ongoing maneuvering for the upcoming presidential elections, with parties seeking unifying candidates. The National Assembly has also overhauled the Election Code, mandating machine voting in larger sections.

Top stories

Public Procurement Transparency Under Scrutiny

New reports reveal that a significant 17 billion euros in public procurement contracts were awarded without competitive bidding, with an upgraded SIGMA report indicating that companies linked to 250 politicians have secured these contracts over the past five years. Additionally, a newly launched state system for tender transparency is criticized for lacking essential features, hindering its effectiveness.

Probe into Delyan Peevski's Finances and Corruption Allegations

Minister of Interior Ivan Demerdzhiev has officially requested the Account Chamber to conduct a comprehensive audit of the finances of Delyan Peevski, the leader of the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DPS) and a Member of the National Assembly. This action signifies a deepening political dispute amid ongoing scrutiny of corruption.

Judicial Council Elections and Prosecutor Appointment

The National Assembly has initiated the procedure for electing members of the Supreme Judicial Council from the parliamentary quota before its recess. Separately, the appointment of a permanent chief prosecutor is not anticipated until next year.

Presidential Election Maneuvering and Election Code Changes

As presidential elections approach, two candidates are reportedly vying for the favor of Prime Minister Rumen Radev. Concurrently, Bozhidar Bozhanov, a Member of the National Assembly, stated that his party is seeking a unifying presidential candidate. The National Assembly has also amended the Election Code to mandate machine voting in larger sections and remove limits on sections outside the EU.

Government Changes and Local Issues

The government plans to replace the leadership of the state-owned company 'Information Services'. Meanwhile, a garbage crisis continues in parts of Sofia, and Deputy Prime Minister Ivan Demerdzhiev revealed a water meter manipulation scheme in ViK-Burgas. Additionally, a complex situation involving conflicts of interest and alleged wiretapping is unfolding in Gorna Oryahovitsa.

Economic and Business Developments

Bulgaria imported as many workers in the first half of this year as in all of 2024, indicating a significant increase in labor demand. In other business news, Ivaylo Konstantinov is proposing to lease Gazprom's gas stations in Bulgaria for a nominal fee, and an examination of Bulgaria's involvement in the space industry was published. The 2026 budget was also broken down into ten key figures.