Supreme Judicial Council

The outgoing Prime Minister of Bulgaria, Nikolai Denkov, has raised concerns over alleged misconduct by acting Prosecutor General Borislav Sarafov, prompting further investigation into the matter. Denkov's actions come in response to reports of psychological pressure exerted on Zhivko Kotsev, Chief Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, leading to his potential resignation.

President Rumen Radev has taken a decisive stance against amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code, effectively vetoing provisions aimed at reinstating the Plenum of the Supreme Judicial Council and bolstering the powers of the Prosecutor General.

Bulgarian lawmakers made significant strides with the second reading of constitutional amendments, endorsing a pivotal change in the process of appointing and dismissing the Prosecutor General.

In a session held on Monday, Parliament advanced the 2024 State Budget Bill at its first reading, marking a significant legislative step forward. The bill received 144 votes in favor, 66 against, and no abstentions.

The National Assembly has taken a significant step by passing the Bill for Amendment and Supplement to the Constitution during its initial reading. This comprehensive amendment introduces pivotal reforms aimed at bolstering the independence of the judiciary, restructuring the Supreme Judicial Council, reforming the Prosecutor's Office, and refining the institution of caretaker cabinets.

"For me, May 24 has always been the brightest holiday that unites us all. For myself, I have no doubt that May 24 is the most suitable day for a national holiday". This was said by Prime Minister Academician Nikolay Denkov, who returned from a one-day visit to Greece.

Veska Ignatova is the "Crypto Queen Mother" of the OneCoin scam.

"The Netherlands is carefully monitoring the actions for judicial reform in Bulgaria and appreciates the efforts in this direction", it became known from a telephone conversation between Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov and his Dutch colleague Mark Rutte, reports the government press service.

In December 2021 a petition was filed by Dr. Jonathan Levy, a UK lawyer representing OneCoin victims, with the Bulgarian Constitutional Ombudsman alleging Bulgarian Chief Prosecutor Geshev was protecting the OneCoin organized crime group founded by fugitive billionaire Ruja Ignatova. The Bulgarian Ministry of Justice has since requested repeatedly that Geshev open an investigation.

President Rumen Radev commented after the opening of the three-day "Green Week 2023" forum on the election of Borislav Sarafov as acting chief prosecutor in place of the removed Ivan Geshev.

According to President Rumen Radev, the quick election of Sarafov raises doubts that the parliamentary parties "are looking to appoint their own guy".