In Bulgaria, the election campaign is taking a unique turn, focusing on a very specific group of party loyalists , rather than reaching new voters. Political scientist Dr. Irena Todorova shared insights on NOVA NEWS.
She even outlined how parties are moving away from traditional media and opting for less popular methods of connecting with voters. In this shift, political leaders engage with smaller, local groups, seemingly preferring a more comfortable and familiar setting.
The tendency for politicians to appear solo in shows, to avoid confrontations and to stick to their scripts, contributes to a decrease in voter turnout, said Associate Professor Stoicho Stoichev. This disengagement and the obvious tiredness of the candidates from the pre-election process does not help to motivate more people to vote, the political scientist summarized.
The real intrigue is in the potential coalitions that could form the next government. The question of whether GERB will partner with one of the two factions of the DPS or seek an alliance with "Vazrazhdane" if it becomes a significant political force excites everyone. The possibility of PP-DB and GERB finding a common language for a prime minister candidate adds another layer of speculation about the future political landscape.
Although the PP-DB shows a desire to lead, the conditions for forming a majority remain uncertain. Prof. Stoychev expresses skepticism about the possibility of forming a stable government with the current political formations, especially given the challenges that small parties may face when entering parliament.
I am inclined to exclude the two formations around DPS as an option for forming a ruling majority. It will be very difficult for them to get involved in a formal type of management. The same applies to the socialist union, which, if it wants to be successful and survive, must be a categorical opposition in the next National Assembly. Only the small parties that could enter the parliament remain, Assoc. Stoychev expects.
Dr Todorova offers a somewhat bleak prognosis, suggesting that new elections may be on the horizon unless a political entity emerges with strong and decisive leadership. In summary, the Bulgarian election campaign is moving into uncharted waters, with a focus on intra-party electorates and a departure from traditional campaign methods. The future of the country's political landscape remains uncertain, with coalition formation and leadership decisions at the forefront of discussion.