“I expect continuity and positioning close to Rumen Radev's project. Iliyana Yotova will not lead a policy more different from Radev's“, said in the studio of “Offensive with Lyubo Ognyanov“ political scientist Daniel Smilov.
“The mass protests that we observed – over a hundred thousand people – were modernization, pro-European and clearly demonstrated public support for change. Attempts by other groups, Eurasian and anti-euro, to organize protests did not achieve the same effect“, said the political scientist.
He pointed out that much will depend on what kind of party Rumen Radev will create and how he will position his messages. “He is not a new person in politics and we can predict some of his positions, but the question still remains what exactly he will offer and whether people will recognize themselves in him“, added Smilov.
“Radev's appearance on the political scene may affect PP-DB, especially if the two formations enter the same niche. The competition will depend on who offers more convincing solutions and messages“, he commented.
Regarding Radev's potential to be a partner of GERB in continuing reforms, Smilov pointed out that Radev's main advantage may be in anti-corruption policy.
“GERB and DPS already had a chance to show readiness for reforms, but they maintained the status quo. The hope is that with Radev things will not be like this – he can appoint people to the judiciary who do not act politically or corporately“, Smilov pointed out.
Regarding the coalition dynamics, Smilov pointed out that the Constitution requires 160 votes for certain decisions, but this does not mean that one party must have an absolute majority. “It is important to elect people with trust even from the opposition, and not purely party appointments“, he explained.
Finally, Smilov also commented on the international context. “The Davos Peace Project is a personal initiative of President Trump and Bulgaria must position itself carefully. Europe currently needs unity, and decisions that are not clearly coordinated can weaken the country on the international stage“, the political scientist concluded.