I expect a hot political autumn. Political scientist Assoc. Prof. Ivo Indjov made such a forecast to the Bulgarian National Radio.
"Its culmination may occur after the New Year. Political tension will rise.
The protest energy is beginning to awaken. There are at least two public spheres in which protests have the potential to grow. First of all, these are those against corruption and the conquered state. The other is social dissatisfaction with household problems and communal services. This maintains tension in the public space".
He sees potential for increased tension due to rising prices.
"If the speculative price increase continues, which is being made in connection with the expected introduction of the euro on January 1".
The government is under siege, the political scientist summarized.
"The protest factor can lead to strong street pressure and early elections in the first half of next year. Even the largest protests cannot directly overthrow a government, but they can lead to the weakening of the governing configuration".
Indjov pointed out that the factor that could shake the government from within is the behavior of Delyan Peevski.
"This configuration suits him, but at some point he may decide that he wants to have more influence and push the country towards early elections".
Borisov has regained his self-confidence and is once again a leading figure, the political scientist also noted.
Indjov also commented on the state of the opposition.
"It is in weak condition. The PP and DB managed to mobilize their core of the protests to a certain extent in support of the Varna mayor. They have a chance to change the current status quo if a strong protest wave is raised.
There is also a nationalist, pro-Russian opposition in the face of "Vazrazhdane", "Velichye" and MECH, which may try to interact with the PP-DB in their vote of no confidence, but the opposition in our country can hardly unite".
The president currently has the unique chance to lead some political alternative, Indzhov also explained.
"But I do not dare to predict whether he will enter the political arena. He is giving clear signals that he is ready to play on two fronts. One is the fight against corruption and the conquered state. The other is moderate nationalism and populism.
Early elections within six months will benefit Radev and will give a very strong start to a presidential candidacy that is associated with him.