A statement on the procedure for explaining a different vote was made by the co-chairman of “Yes, Bulgaria” Ivaylo Mirchev, after the ruling majority adopted the draft state budget for 2026 in the plenary hall at first reading. Here is what Mirchev said:
Yesterday there was a big protest in Sofia. And we asked the people - how many of you have had your salaries increased by 68% like in the Ministry of Interior. Nobody. With this budget you don't just want to ensure peace of mind during the year, buying off the administration. With this budget, you have destroyed the social dialogue, you have destroyed the conversation with business.
The only thing that can be done to oppose the adoption of this budget is for everyone to go out to protest. All those who believe that they can be part of a normal Bulgaria, who are against the looting, against the money that is set aside for that rhinoceros on steroids who does not come and vote, must be in the square, must be around the National Assembly, must oppose the adoption of this budget. We must have no doubt that in the current budget, social security contributions were increased, taxes will be increased. (After a shout from Minister Temenuzhka Petkova).
Mrs. Temenuzhka, do not interrupt me, because you have become a straw man for Yordan Tsonev, who is the real Minister of Finance - please do not interrupt me. Today they are increasing the dividend tax, the maximum social security income and social security contributions. Tomorrow the lady to my right will come out and tell you that they are introducing a progressive tax and raising VAT. Then they will remove the flat tax. And here Dragomir Stoynev (pointing to the left side of the hall) says “yes, yes, yes”. His deputy prime minister explains - this is the most leftist budget.
Now, do all those who are middle class in this country and who care about Bulgaria understand why they should be protesting? Because otherwise, those who serve the rhinoceros on steroids will get away with it and in the end they will bankrupt the country the way their Zhan Videnov bankrupted it.