A collision of political ambition and perceived incompetence has led to national crises, according to ITN Member of Parliament Stanislav Balabanov. speaking on BNT’s “The Day Starts with Georgi Lyubenov,” Balabanov asserted that the “We Continue the Change – Democratic Bulgaria” (PP-DB) coalition,in conjunction with the Bulgarian Communist Party (BCP),has orchestrated thes detrimental outcomes.
Balabanov highlighted a pattern of political maneuvering, stating that GERB, BSP, and ITN have consistently sought broad parliamentary support for legislative initiatives. He noted that a meaningful number of political parties have expressed a desire to collaborate on legislation deemed crucial for the nation’s progress.
He recalled instances where PP-DB’s proposals, particularly during a period of joint governance, were driven by a desire for centralized control. Balabanov specifically cited Kiril Petkov‘s alleged attempt to place Boyko Rashkov at the head of the Commission for Combating Corruption and for the Confiscation of Unlawfully Acquired Property (CONPI). Balabanov stated he was present during these discussions, which ultimately led to the rejection of the proposal due to concerns that CONPI would be weaponized.
Further elaborating on the division of CONPI during a parliamentary session, Balabanov explained that PP-DB granted CONPI investigative powers, intending to maintain leverage when in power. He claimed that internal records indicate PP-DB leaders aimed to exert influence over state institutions through their aspirations for CONPI.
Balabanov also pointed out that PP-DB themselves incorporated CONPI into the Recovery and Resilience Plan.
“ITN will make every effort this week to prevent the closure of CONPI, as 5 billion [levs] are at stake,” Balabanov added.
This statement follows an declaration by GERB leader Boyko Borissov on Saturday from Burgas. Borissov declared the formation of a new parliamentary majority comprising PP-DB, “Vazrazhdane,” “Velichie,” ITN, and “MRF – New Beginning,” a coalition he claimed intended to close CONPI.
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