"I think I can find that fusion between the generations that will unite the young, the middle-aged and the experienced socialists - those who have won battles and brought victories. Together we can calm the party and lead it forward." This was stated by the chairwoman of the Socialist Women's Movement and candidate for BSP leader Dora Yankova on the air of Bulgaria ON AIR.
According to her, it is necessary to resolve the fundamental ideological issue - where the BSP stands in modern Bulgaria. “There is a huge niche for the socialist left, but we must find our role and place in the political spectrum“, Yankova emphasized.
“Today we are in fifth place, and we must strive for second and even first. This requires a lot of work, policy-making and collective intelligence“, she is categorical.
Yankova expressed confidence that the party must once again become a cohesive team – from municipal councilors to members of parliament and ministers, who can make decisions together. “Therefore, a serious leader is needed at the head of the BSP – a person who understands the problems, unites and gives everyone a chance“, she said.
Dora Yankova explained that from the very beginning she was against the direct election of the chairman, because it led to division in the party. “When the chairman is elected in a narrow way, all his opponents begin to perceive him as enemies. Thus, different camps emerged, which turned out to be disastrous for the BSP. However, if the chairman is elected with broader support, he will be able to unite the candidates and create a collective mind for the party's governance“, she emphasized.
Yankova called on the government, in which the BSP participates, to place emphasis on industry, the economy and energy, in order to strengthen them.
“My appeal to the BSP ministers is to have self-confidence and character to defend left-wing policies in the government debate. There are opportunities for the cabinet to adopt progressive left-wing decisions in the interest of the people“, she pointed out.
Yankova was categorical that the BSP cannot back down from social justice and support for the most vulnerable. "Our mission is to leave no one behind. Social spending should not be cut," she said, but stressed that the party cannot think only about benefits and pensions.
"We must look ahead and work for the progressive development of the country. The left has always been a bearer of the progressive view and now it is time for this to be clearly enshrined in the government's program," Yankova concluded.